The FRA’s decision to disband RSAC has drawn strong reactions from unions and industry leaders because the committee played a key role in shaping collaborative safety policy for the U.S. rail network. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The FRA’s decision to disband RSAC has drawn strong reactions from unions and industry leaders because the committee played a key role in shaping collaborative safety policy for the U.S. rail network.

RSAC Decision and Industry Reaction

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has officially dissolved RSAC as part of a Department of Transportation (DOT) effort to reform federal advisory committees under a presidential executive order.

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DOT officials said many committees had become stagnant, with some failing to meet for over a year. They argued certain panels had lost focus, prioritizing political agendas over transportation safety priorities.

The Transportation Trades Division of the AFL-CIO, representing multiple railroad unions, strongly criticized the move. Spokeswoman Victoria Mandato warned that ending RSAC without a clear plan for reconstitution risks weakening safety oversight and excluding worker voices.

RSAC’s Role and Possible Future

Established in 1996, RSAC brought together railroads, unions, suppliers, and other stakeholders to advise FRA on safety regulations. The 51-member body often provided recommendations that informed new rules under the Federal Railroad Safety Act.

The committee typically met twice a year, supported by smaller technical groups working on specialized issues. Although FRA has not provided a timeline for its return, DOT has invited interested parties to apply for potential membership in a restructured RSAC.

FRA Acting Administrator Drew Feeley informed members their appointments had ended, thanking them for their contributions. He credited their work with improving safety outcomes and advancing solutions to complex industry challenges.

The agency has not confirmed whether other federal rail advisory committees, such as those run by the Surface Transportation Board, will face similar changes. This uncertainty leaves open questions about the long-term approach to collaborative safety policy.

Source: www.trains.com

FAQ

What is RSAC?

RSAC, or Railroad Safety Advisory Committee, is a formal FRA advisory body created in 1996 to involve industry stakeholders in rail safety rulemaking and policy development.

Why did FRA disband RSAC?

FRA said the decision aligns with a DOT-wide effort to refresh advisory committees, citing inactivity, outdated structures, and a need to refocus on core safety priorities.

Will RSAC be reinstated?

DOT has not given a timeline but has encouraged interested parties to apply for possible future membership in a reorganized RSAC.

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