Recognizing Senate Bill 481, 81st Texas Legislature, Regular Session, 2009, as the Justin Little Rail Crew Safe Transportation Act.
The enactment of Senate Bill 481 led to significant changes in Texas statutes regarding the regulations of contract carriers, aimed at enhancing safety measures for the transportation of railroad crews. This legislative response not only aimed to prevent similar accidents in the future but also to ensure that those who transport railroad personnel adhere to stricter safety standards. By formally recognizing this legislation, HR680 reaffirms the commitment to the safety of individuals employed in the railroad industry and the importance of robust regulatory frameworks to safeguard their well-being.
HR680 is a resolution recognizing Senate Bill 481, known as the Justin Little Rail Crew Safe Transportation Act, which was enacted by the 81st Texas Legislature in 2009. The bill arose in response to a tragic incident on August 14, 2005, in which a contract carrier transporting railroad personnel struck a tree, resulting in critical injuries to Justin Little, among others. The event underscored the need for improved safety regulations for contract carrier operations, particularly in the context of transporting railroad crews, which cover approximately 20 million miles each year on Texas highways.
While HR680 is primarily a recognition of past legislative actions rather than a new regulatory measure, the discussions surrounding the original Senate Bill 481 highlighted points of contention regarding the balance between necessary regulatory oversight and the operational flexibility of contract carriers. Supporters argued for the importance of stringent safety measures, while some within the transportation sector expressed concerns that overly burdensome regulations could impact operational efficiency. The ongoing discourse emphasizes the need for continual assessment of safety regulations in the context of evolving transportation practices.