Bill > HB1278

This bill introduces new regulations for train length in Indiana, specifically prohibiting railroads from operating trains longer than 8,500 feet on main lines or branch lines. The bill defines key terms: a "main line" is a Class I railroad with either at least 5 million gross tons of annual railroad traffic or used for regularly scheduled intercity or commuter rail passenger service, while a "branch line" is a secondary railroad track that branches off from a main line. To enforce this restriction, the Indiana Department of Transportation is authorized to impose a civil penalty of $5,000 for each violation of the train length limit. The new regulations will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving railroads time to adjust their operations to comply with the new maximum train length. The bill aims to potentially improve rail safety, operational efficiency, or address specific concerns about excessively long trains in the state.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/house/1278/details