Railroads; requiring certain railroad trains to have two certified crew members aboard. Effective date. Emergency.
The bill is designed to strengthen safety protocols within the railroad industry, which has been under increasing scrutiny due to several high-profile accidents. By mandating two crew members, the legislation aims to create a more reliable system for monitoring train operations and responding to emergencies more effectively. This change is expected to influence state laws governing transportation and specifically address safety concerns related to freight trains.
Senate Bill 971 proposes new regulations for railroad operations in Oklahoma, specifically requiring that all freight-operating railroad trains have a minimum of two certified crew members on board while in motion. The bill aims to enhance the safety and operational integrity of rail transport, acknowledging that having adequately trained personnel is crucial to addressing emergencies and ensuring proper management of train operations. The legislation explicitly defines 'certified crew members' as those directly involved in the operation, excluding various support personnel.
Notably, the bill outlines several exceptions to the requirement. These include trains primarily used for transporting people or those operating exclusively within rail yards. Furthermore, trains traveling at reduced speeds with specific configurations are also exempt. This has sparked discussions among stakeholders in the rail industry, including companies that may find compliance burdensome, raising questions about the potential increase in operational costs versus the intended safety benefits.
To ensure compliance, the bill gives authority to the Department of Public Safety to issue citations for violations, carrying significant financial penalties ranging from $250 to $10,000 depending on the frequency of the offense. This approach emphasizes the state's commitment to enforcing safety regulations while balancing the operational needs of freight rail services.