Bill > A1923

This bill requires the owner or operator of a "high hazard train" (a train transporting a large amount of petroleum, petroleum products, or other hazardous substances) traveling within New Jersey to submit a discharge response, cleanup, and contingency plan to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The plan must contain details on emergency response measures, available equipment, personnel qualifications, and priorities for protecting sensitive areas. The owner/operator must renew the plan every 5 years, amend it for any route or equipment changes, and provide copies to the state's Office of Emergency Management. The bill also requires the owner/operator to retain evidence of financial responsibility for cleanup costs, offer training to local emergency service providers along the route, and meet certain timelines for deploying personnel and equipment in the event of a discharge. The DEP can impose civil penalties for violations. Additionally, the DEP must annually request bridge inspection reports from the U.S. Department of Transportation for bridges owned by railroads in the state and provide those reports to the Governor and Legislature.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A1923