Bill > S05748

This bill prohibits freight trains traveling on tracks within New York state from exceeding 8,500 feet in length, with an important provision allowing the commissioner of transportation to establish a waiver process for trains that might need to be longer. The waiver would be granted only in situations where the commissioner determines it is in the public interest and an engineer confirms that the longer train can safely operate on its planned route. The bill includes a conditional clause that would render the law void if federal agencies determine it would make New York ineligible for federal funds or if a court finds it non-compliant with federal law. The legislation will take effect 90 days after becoming law, and the transportation commissioner is authorized to develop necessary implementing regulations in advance of the effective date. This bill appears aimed at addressing potential safety and operational concerns related to increasingly long freight trains by setting a maximum length standard while maintaining flexibility for exceptional circumstances.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5748