Bill > LB37

This bill adopts the Railroad Safety Act, which introduces comprehensive safety regulations for railroads operating in Nebraska. The legislation establishes strict guidelines for train operations, including limiting train lengths carrying hazardous substances to 8,500 feet, mandating wayside detector systems (which monitor train conditions) along main lines every 20 miles, and requiring railroads to stop and inspect trains when defects are detected. The bill also prohibits trains from blocking public crossings for more than 10 minutes and allows crew members to report safety violations to their union representatives. Railroads found in violation can be fined between $10,000 and $25,000 per day, with potential fines up to $100,000 for intentional or repeated violations. Additionally, the bill requires railroads to provide training to local fire departments about handling dangerous goods and hazardous substances, and establishes that in legal cases involving train accidents, plaintiffs' damages will not be reduced if the train's excessive length is found to have contributed to the incident. The law will become operative on July 1, 2026, and aims to improve railroad safety, protect public infrastructure, and ensure more responsible railroad operations in the state.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58927