New Jersey Senate Bill S358

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Concerns railroad safety.

Impact

The bill stipulates civil administrative penalties for violations, which can reach up to $25,000 per violation. Each day of continued violation is considered a separate offense. Moreover, the bill prohibits any train from exceeding a length of 8,500 feet on any main or branch line, enforcing strict penalties for those exceeding this limit, especially if violations pose a threat to public safety or result in injury. This legislation is expected to significantly impact operational practices for railroad companies in New Jersey, necessitating a review and enhancement of their safety protocols.

Summary

Senate Bill S358 introduces new regulations regarding railroad safety in New Jersey. Aimed at enhancing safety protocols surrounding high hazard trains, the bill mandates that such trains have a minimum crew size of two persons and that they visibly display the name of their operating railroad company. In the event of a hazardous discharge, the train's owner or operator is required to follow specific timelines for emergency response, including deploying trained personnel and equipment within specified hours after the incident occurs.

Contention

While the bill is primarily supported as a measure to bolster public safety, there are concerns among certain stakeholders regarding its implications for railroad operations. Critics argue that the required crew sizes and imposed penalties could disproportionately affect smaller railroad companies and hinder operational flexibility. There is also potential contention regarding the burden of compliance with the new wayside detector systems standards, which may require significant investment from railroad operators.