Pennsylvania rail regulatory bill moves to Senate

The Pennsylvania rail regulatory bill has cleared the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. According to a Matzie’s office press release, it now heads to the state Senate. Still, its prospects there are less certain. The measure was prompted by the 2023 East Palestine derailment in Ohio.

What the Pennsylvania rail regulatory bill would do?

State Rep. Rob Matzie (D-Beaver) sponsored H.B. 1191. It would set a train length limit of 8,500 feet. In addition, it would require two-person train crews. Also, it would mandate certification that wayside defect detectors are functioning properly. At the same time, it would require a rail hazardous materials reporting system. Railway Supply previously reported the bill’s provisions. Meanwhile, the bill passed the House on Wednesday, March 25, by a 120-79 vote.

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Matzie’s argument and the earlier House vote

“It’s been three years since the catastrophe in East Palestine. We can’t sit around and wait for that to happen again,” Matzie said in a press release. “I am glad the House took action to prevent the next rail disaster and make our communities and families safer by passing this bill. H.B. 1191 is a way we can start to reduce derailments and protect workers, first responders, and community residents.”

Separately, a similar measure passed the House in 2023 by a 141-62 vote. Still, it did not advance out of committee in the Senate. Trains reported that earlier outcome.

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