BLET Applauds Move to Block Non-U.S. Train Crews at the Border

U.S.-Mexico border rail security is at the center of bipartisan legislation introduced last week. U.S. Reps. Chris Pappas (D-N.H.) and Lance Gooden (R-Texas) introduced the bill. It aims to tighten procedures for train crew changes and inspections. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

As reported by Progressive Railroading, it is titled the Protecting American Railroad Workers’ Jobs Act. It is filed as H.R. 8468. Also, it would prohibit non-U.S. citizens and permanent residents from operating trains across the southern border. In addition, it proposes new guidelines aimed at reducing inspection delays.

Inspection delays and crew changes

According to a press release from Pappas’ office, repeated inspection delays have led to more waivers. The Federal Railroad Administration has issued those waivers. Those waivers allow crew changes and inspections after trains have already entered the United States. Officials from the office said delayed inspections and crew changes increase opportunities for drug smuggling.

The Teamsters Rail Conference supports the proposal. Also, the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen supports it.

“In repeated visits to the southern border, I heard one consistent message from BLET members: Railroad jobs in America should be done by Americans,” said Mark Wallace, president of TRC and BLET. “This legislation reflects that commonsense principle and will strengthen job security for BLET members while reinforcing proper oversight of cross-border rail operations.”

The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. Its full text is available online.

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