Ohio 2023-2024 Regular Session

Ohio House Bill HCR4

Caption

Urge Congress enact law re: trains carrying hazardous materials

Impact

If passed, HCR4 would emphasize the state's position on the necessity of federal involvement in regulating the transportation of hazardous materials. This could result in changes to state laws related to transportation safety and emergency response protocols. The resolution aims to influence legislative discussions at the national level and could potentially lead to new regulations that establish higher safety standards for railways carrying such materials. The outcome could provide a framework for states to improve their emergency response capabilities and mitigate risks associated with hazardous materials transportation.

Summary

HCR4 is a concurrent resolution that urges Congress to enact legislation regarding trains that transport hazardous materials. The resolution highlights the increasing risks associated with the transportation of such materials and calls for stricter safety measures to prevent potential disasters. By advocating for federal oversight, HCR4 aims to enhance the safety protocols and ensure the protection of communities surrounding railway routes where hazardous materials are transported. The resolution reflects a growing concern among state lawmakers about the implications of rail traffic on public safety and environmental health.

Contention

While there appears to be support for HCR4 among various stakeholders, there may also be contention regarding the extent of federal regulation. Opponents of stricter regulations could argue that current safety measures are adequate and that additional regulations may impose excessive burdens on the rail industry. Proponents of HCR4, however, would counter that the policy is essential for preventing accidents and ensuring that rail operators are held accountable for the safe transport of hazardous materials. The resolution underscores a critical dialogue on how best to balance economic interests with public safety and environmental considerations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OH SCR8

Urge Congress pass Reducing Accidents in Locomotives (RAIL) Act

OH HR147

Investigate East Palestine train derailment and EPA response

OH HB853

Assistance for Local Heroes During Train Crises ActThis bill establishes a Hazardous Train Event Emergency Reimbursement Fund for state and local emergency response groups.Upon a declaration by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) that a hazardous train event has occurred, the FRA must immediately award at least $250,000 from the emergency fund to one or more eligible groups (e.g., law enforcement agencies and fire departments). Additional amounts may be awarded, but may not exceed $3 million per hazardous train event. The FRA may declare a hazardous train event has occurred following a derailment or crash involving a train carrying hazardous materials, hazardous waste, or other materials that pose a threat to public health, safety, and the environment.Costs associated with a response to a hazardous train event that are eligible for reimbursement include (1) replacing damaged or contaminated equipment, (2) overtime pay for firefighters or law enforcement officers, and (3) retroactively covering these types of incurred costs after the event date.The FRA must also (1) establish annual fees for shippers and carriers of hazardous materials by rail that have total annual collections of at least $10 million, and (2) deposit the fees into the reimbursement fund.Further, the Department of Transportation must issue regulations requiring railroads that transport hazardous materials by train to provide county and local emergency response groups with (1) advance warning of the train's load and timing, and (2) real-time location information on the train when it enters and exits the community's service area.

OH SR261

Urge Congress to create a National Infrastructure Bank.

OH SB1289

Hazardous materials: non-RCRA hazardous waste: landfill disposal.

OH AB2776

An act to amend Sections 25117.5, 25123.3, 25123.5, 25125.7, 25160, 25201.5, 25218.1, 25270.2, 25270.4.5, 25270.6, 25270.8, 25288, 25290.1, and 25507 of the Health and Safety Code, relating to hazardous materials.

OH SB404

Hazardous materials: metal shredding facilities.

OH SB811

An act to amend Sections 25117, 25150.87, and 41514.6 of, to add Chapter 6.4 (commencing with Section 25095) to Division 20 of, and to repeal Sections 25150.82, 25150.84, and 25150.86 of, the Health and Safety Code, relating to hazardous waste.

OH HCR42

Urge Congress to enact the Veterans' ACCESS Act

OH SCR19

Urge Congress to enact the Ohio River Restoration Program Act

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.