Bill > S3389

This bill establishes comprehensive safety requirements for railroad operations in New Jersey, focusing on dangerous hazardous trains. The legislation mandates that railroad companies operating dangerous hazardous trains must have a minimum of two crew members onboard, with specific exceptions for certain scenarios like tourist trains or assistance locomotives. The bill also limits train length to 8,500 feet and imposes civil penalties ranging from $500 to $1,000 per violation, with potential maximum penalties of $250,000 for grossly negligent or repeated violations that create imminent safety hazards. Additionally, the bill requires railroad companies to submit bridge inspection reports to state authorities and establishes a wayside detector system program to ensure proper installation and maintenance of electronic systems that can detect potential train defects. The legislation includes provisions for labor representatives to inspect railroad properties for safety hazards, with protections for their access and immunity from civil liability. The Department of Transportation is tasked with developing funding assistance programs to help railroad companies comply with these new safety requirements and must adopt implementing regulations within 18 months of the bill's enactment. The overall aim is to enhance railroad safety, protect communities near railroad tracks, and ensure thorough monitoring of train operations and equipment conditions.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S3389