Railroad Safety Enhancement Act of 2026

The Railroad Safety Enhancement Act of 2026 aims to improve the safety of the nation's rail network, with a specific focus on trains transporting hazardous materials. The bill proposes new requirements for "high-hazard trains," including speed restrictions in urban areas and the implementation of advanced electronic tracking systems. It would also codify a requirement for at least two-person crews on all Class I freight trains and establish new standards for train length and weight to prevent accidents involving ultra-long trains.

To improve emergency response, the legislation would require railroads to provide first responders with real-time data about hazardous cargo through tools like the ASKRAIL app. It also proposes a significant increase in civil penalties for safety violations, with fines reaching up to $5 million for incidents resulting in death or serious injury. Additionally, the bill would mandate that all major railroads participate in a confidential reporting system for "close call" incidents and would provide $1 billion in new funding to eliminate dangerous railroad crossings.