Ohio 2023-2024 Regular Session

Ohio House Bill HR33

Introduced
2/21/23  
Report Pass
3/16/23  

Caption

Urge Congress pass laws re: trains carrying hazardous materials

Impact

If enacted, this resolution would result in heightened safety measures at the federal level regarding the transportation of hazardous materials by rail. It emphasizes the need for improved communication between railroad companies and government officials, aiming to bolster local preparedness in the event of similar incidents. This change could lead to more effective emergency response strategies and better public safety measures in communities at risk from hazardous material transportation.

Summary

House Resolution 33 (HR33) urges the United States Congress to pass legislation requiring railroad companies to inform local and state government officials when trains carrying potentially hazardous materials travel through their respective jurisdictions. The resolution is a direct response to the derailment of a Norfolk Southern train in East Palestine, Ohio, on February 3, 2023, which led to the release of dangerous chemicals that contaminated the area, posing significant risks to public health and the environment.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR33 appears supportive, particularly among those affected by the East Palestine incident. The resolution has garnered a significant majority in the Ohio House, passing with 94 votes in favor and only one against. This overwhelming support indicates a strong desire among legislators to take proactive steps to ensure public safety and improve communication regarding hazardous materials.

Contention

While there seems to be widespread agreement on the necessity of railroad companies notifying government officials about hazardous materials, some may argue regarding the feasibility of such measures or the potential financial burden on the rail industry. Additionally, the extent to which the federal government will act on such resolutions can lead to discussions about federalism and the responsibility of state versus national oversight.

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 SR14

Urges Congress to pass "Safe and Open Streets Act."

OH HCR15

Urge Congress to pass the Defense Against Drones Act of 2025

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 SB1289

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

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 HCR19

Urge congressional delegation to uphold federalism re: elections

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.