Adopts the Railroad Safety Act.

Establishes the Railroad Safety Act which seeks to clarify rail safety procedures in the State of Nebraska. The bill clarifies that a Class I railroad shall not operate a train carrying hazardous substances that has a length greater than 8,500 feet on any mainline. It also provides that there must be an operational and properly maintained wayside detector system, including a hot bearings detector and dragging equipment detector.
Provides procedures that a railroad must take once a defect message from a wayside detector system has been received. The bill also clarifies that a public crossing cannot be blocked for longer than 10 minutes unless the train, freight car, passenger car or railroad transportation engine is continuously moving or if circumstances beyond the railroad�s control prevent it from being moved.

Provides that a crew member may report to their union representative of any safety issues, injury or death that occurred during the operation of a train or in yard service. In addition, the bill provides fines for violating the provisions within the bill.

Clarifies that a railroad that transports hazardous substances in the state shall maintain insurance coverage in an amount that is adequate to pay for costs, damages and liabilities arising from accidents involving such transportation. The Public Service Commission is tasked with conducting periodic audits or investigations to ensure compliance with the insurance requirements.

Pending Committee action.

01/09/2025 Introduced.
01/13/2025 Referred to Committee on Transportation and Telecommunications.