Train Crew Choice Act
Summary
The Train Crew Choice Act aims to nullify the Federal Railroad Administration's (FRA) final rule on train crew size safety requirements, specifically targeting the rule published on April 9, 2024. This rule, titled "Train Crew Size Safety Requirements," is identified as 89 Fed. Reg. 25052. The Act seeks to remove any force or effect of this FRA regulation.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Mr. Burlison and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The core purpose of the act is to give train companies more choice in determining crew sizes.
Ultimately, the bill's impact hinges on the perceived balance between safety regulations and operational flexibility within the railroad industry.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the Train Crew Choice Act would eliminate the FRA's mandated safety requirements regarding train crew sizes. This would likely shift the decision-making power on crew sizes to individual railroad companies.
This could lead to a reduction in crew sizes on some trains, potentially impacting both operational costs and safety protocols. The practical effect would be determined by how railroad companies adjust their crew sizes in response to the nullification of the FRA rule.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially lower operational costs for railroad companies due to smaller crew sizes.
- Increased flexibility for railroad companies to manage their workforce.
- Could spur innovation in train operation technologies as companies seek to optimize efficiency with smaller crews.
- May lead to more competitive pricing in the transportation sector if cost savings are passed on to consumers.
- Potentially reduced government oversight and regulatory burden on the railroad industry.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential safety risks associated with reduced crew sizes, leading to increased accidents or incidents.
- Job losses for train crew members if companies opt for smaller crews.
- Increased workload and stress on remaining crew members, potentially affecting their performance and safety.
- Possible negative impact on public perception of railroad safety, leading to decreased ridership or freight transport.
- Potential for environmental damage if accidents increase due to reduced crew sizes.
Constitutional Alignment
The Train Crew Choice Act falls under the legislative powers granted to Congress in Article I, Section 1 of the U.S. Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in the Congress. Congress has the authority to regulate interstate commerce, which includes the railroad industry.
The Act's nullification of an existing regulation raises questions about the balance of power between the legislative and executive branches. While Congress can pass laws, the executive branch is responsible for implementing and enforcing them. This act seeks to directly overturn a rule promulgated by a federal agency under the executive branch.
There are no apparent violations of individual rights or freedoms as outlined in the Bill of Rights. The Act primarily addresses economic and regulatory matters within the purview of Congressional authority.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).