H.R. 5135: Train Crew Choice Act

This bill, known as the Train Crew Choice Act, proposes to eliminate a specific safety regulation that pertains to the size of train crews. It directly targets a final rule that was issued by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) on April 9, 2024, which outlined requirements for the minimum number of crew members that must be present on a train during operations.

Key Provisions of the Bill

• The bill specifically nullifies the FRA's rule regarding train crew size safety requirements, meaning that the regulation will no longer be in effect if the bill is passed.
• By nullifying this rule, the bill aims to provide more flexibility to train operators regarding how many crew members they employ on their trains.
• Advocates of the bill may argue that it allows rail companies to optimize their operations and potentially reduce costs related to staffing.
• Opponents of the bill may express that it could have implications for safety, as a reduced crew size might lead to challenges in ensuring safe train operations.

Context

The final rule set by the FRA was intended to establish minimum crew requirements to enhance safety on railroads. The introduction of the Train Crew Choice Act suggests a shift in the regulatory approach towards train crew size, potentially reflecting broader industry trends or pressures.

Relevant Companies

• UNP - Union Pacific Corporation: As one of the largest railroad networks in the United States, Union Pacific might be directly impacted by changes in crew size regulations, potentially allowing for more operational flexibility and cost management.
• CSX - CSX Corporation: Another major player in the railroad industry, CSX could also benefit from increased flexibility in staffing decisions if the crew size regulations are nullified.
• BNSF - BNSF Railway Company: As a significant freight operator, changes to crew size requirements might affect BNSF’s operational practices and cost structure.