Bill > SB597

This bill establishes new regulations for railroad operations in Oklahoma, focusing on train length and intersection blocking. The legislation defines key terms like "branch line," "main line," "railroad," "train," and "siding or passing track," and then prohibits railroad companies from operating trains longer than 8,500 feet or longer than the shortest siding or passing track on their route. Additionally, the bill forbids trains from blocking intersections for more than 10 minutes at a time. Violations of these rules can result in significant financial penalties, with civil fines ranging from $500 to $1,000 per foot of excessive train length for willful violations. In cases of grossly negligent or repeated violations that pose an imminent threat to human life or actually cause injury or death, railroad companies could face fines up to $250,000. The Transportation Commission will determine penalties based on factors like the violation's severity, the company's history of infractions, and its ability to pay. At the Commission's request, the Attorney General can initiate civil actions to collect these penalties, which will be deposited into the State Transportation Fund. The bill is set to take effect on November 1, 2025, and aims to improve railroad safety and community access by limiting train lengths and intersection blockages.

Transportation and Infrastructure

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb597&Session=2600