Bill > A01145

This bill amends the New York railroad law by repealing the existing section 53-b and replacing it with a new provision that gives locomotive engineers more discretion in sounding their horns at private highway-rail grade crossings. Specifically, the bill allows locomotive engineers to sound their horn if, in their sole professional judgment, doing so is necessary to prevent imminent injury, death, or property damage. Unlike previous regulations, this bill provides engineers with broader authority to use their horn as a warning to animals, vehicle operators, pedestrians, trespassers, or crews on other trains in emergency situations, while still being subject to any existing federal law or regulations. The legislation aims to provide locomotive engineers with greater flexibility in using their horn as a safety measure, recognizing that they are best positioned to assess potential hazards in real-time at private crossings. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1145