As Vice Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall (D-WV) voiced his strong support Wednesday night for House passage of comprehensive legislation that will strengthen the safety of our Nation's railroads and reinvest in our Nation’s passenger rail system. 

“With gas prices having topped $4 a gallon across the Nation, investing in passenger rail is an absolute must,” said Rahall.  “This bill would help create a safer rail industry, a safer rail workforce, and a safer transportation infrastructure for our Nation."

The bill, H.R. 2095 combines the Federal Railroad Safety Act of 2008 and the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008, two earlier pieces of legislation cosponsored by Congressman Rahall.

"Innovative projects, like the Heartland Corridor, are breathing new life into the railroad industry in West Virginia," continued Rahall.  "Economic growth and increased trade have produced record traffic levels. At the same time, Amtrak, and other national commuter railroads are moving more passengers, placing added pressure and safety concerns on our rail system.  This comprehensive legislation, which I cosponsored, authorizes funding needed to upgrade and rehabilitate our Nation’s rail network and help meet the needs of rising ridership.”

Rahall has made increasing our Nation's transportation safety one of his top priorities, and has used his position as Vice Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to voice his strong support for the rail industry and to help pass these important safety measures. 

The Federal Railroad Safety Administration Act of 2008:

• Mandates positive train control (PTC) technology on passenger and certain hazmat rail main lines by 2015 and authorizes $250 million in Federal grants for PTC installation;
• Guarantees a 12-hour work period and minimum 10-hour disruption-free rest period for train crews and signal employees;
• Limit the amount of time a rail worker may be in “limbo time”;
• Requires a Federal study and regulation on use of cell phones and other device distractions in locomotive cabs;
• Requires risk-based safety programs for all major railroads to prevent deaths and injuries; and
• Creates a National Transportation Safety Board office to assist families of passengers following rail disasters.

The Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008:

• Authorizes $13.06 billion over five years for passenger rail.
• Requires reforms at Amtrak, including a new Board of Directors, improved accounting and financial planning, and new standards for service reliability and on-time performance;
• Authorizes the Surface Transportation Board to fine freight railroads for delaying Amtrak trains; and
• Requires Amtrak stations to comply with disability accessibility standards and authorizes funding for such improvements.