Bill > HB958

This bill establishes several new safety requirements for railroads operating in Maryland, focusing on crew size, train operations, and safety monitoring. The legislation mandates that freight trains must have a crew of at least two individuals, with fines up to $25,000 for violations. Railroad companies are prohibited from blocking railroad or highway crossings for more than 5 minutes and cannot operate freight trains longer than 8,500 feet on main or branch tracks. The bill requires railroad companies to install and maintain wayside detector systems (electronic scanning devices) on tracks classified as Class IV or higher by the Federal Railroad Administration, with specific guidelines for installation, monitoring, and employee training. Additionally, the bill requires the Commissioner of Labor and Industry to create a confidential reporting system for hazardous materials transportation by rail, which will be shared only with emergency management agencies. The legislation also grants authorized railroad union representatives the right to investigate safety hazards and potential law violations on railroad property, ensuring they cannot be accused of trespassing during such investigations. The new regulations will take effect on October 1, 2025, and aim to improve railroad safety and prevent potential accidents in Maryland.