Urges the Federal Railroad Administration to stop Class I freight railroads from using precision-scheduled railroading.
Impact
The resolution highlights important statistics and findings related to the adoption of PSR. For instance, since its implementation, Class I freight railroads have seen a reduction in employee numbers, notably among maintenance staff who ensure the safety and functionality of locomotives and railcars. The United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) indicated a correlation between PSR practices and potential safety detriments, such as increased accident rates in certain areas where PSR has been practiced without establishing specific FRA regulations to govern these practices.
Summary
Assembly Resolution No. 68 (AR68) urges the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to halt the implementation of precision-scheduled railroading (PSR) by Class I freight railroads. PSR is promoted by freight railroads as a strategy to enhance operational efficiency and cost management. However, various stakeholders including employee unions and shipping representatives express significant concerns regarding safety implications tied to PSR's practices, which include reductions in workforce and longer train lengths.
Conclusion
Ultimately, AR68 aims to take a protective stance regarding rail safety within the state, reflecting broader concerns about the operational practices adopted by major freight rail operators. It invites necessary dialogue on how regulatory frameworks can evolve to balance industry efficiency with the imperative of maintaining stringent safety standards.
Contention
Supporters of the resolution assert that the rapidly growing practice of PSR poses undeniable risks, pointing to safety incidents, employee burnout due to extended work hours, and mechanical failures stemming from reduced staffing. The resolution serves not only to express legislative discontent but seeks to prompt immediate attention from the FRA to re-evaluate and potentially suspend PSR until comprehensive safety regulations are formulated. Conversely, critics may argue that the resolution stifles modernization efforts within the railway industry that aim to boost effectiveness and profitability.