arrow_back Back to App

Rail Safety Overhaul: Mandatory Brake Checks, Defect Studies, and Public Waivers.

This Act significantly enhances US rail safety by tightening inspection rules and increasing transparency regarding railroad operations. It mandates thorough brake inspections before trains leave switchyards and requires public disclosure of all safety waivers granted to major carriers. These measures aim to directly reduce the risk of derailments and catastrophic accidents near populated areas, thereby protecting citizens' lives and property.
Key points
Mandatory Full Brake Inspections: Trains cannot move until all required brake inspections are completed by a qualified inspector (inspections while moving are prohibited).
Wheel Defect Studies: The FRA must study the causes of broken wheel rims and implement new strategies and regulations to prevent derailments caused by mechanical failures.
Public Safety Waiver Disclosure: All active safety waivers granted to major railroads regarding brake procedures and safety training must be posted publicly online.
Improved Emergency Brake Signals: Requires more frequent communication checks between train devices to ensure the immediate and reliable transmission of emergency brake signals.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Expired
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_1044
Sponsor: Sen. Fetterman, John [D-PA]
Process start date: 2023-03-29
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
AI work logs for this document launch

OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Railway Accountability Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_1044.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-03-29.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Mandatory Full Brake Inspections: Trains cannot move until all required brake inspections are completed by a qualified inspector (inspections while moving are prohibited).
  • Wheel Defect Studies: The FRA must study the causes of broken wheel rims and implement new strategies and regulations to prevent derailments caused by mechanical failures.
  • Public Safety Waiver Disclosure: All active safety waivers granted to major railroads regarding brake procedures and safety training must be posted publicly online.
  • Improved Emergency Brake Signals: Requires more frequent communication checks between train devices to ensure the immediate and reliable transmission of emergency brake signals.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Fetterman, John [D-PA].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Transport Security