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10/2/2024
The Federal Railroad Administration yesterday announced a direct final rule that codifies the FRA's formal policy for when to gather information from, and consult with, various stakeholders during an accident and incident investigations and the appropriate method for doing so.
The new rule mandates that key stakeholders — including railroad carriers, labor organizations and other relevant entities — are provided the opportunity to participate in FRA accident/incident investigations. This includes the ability to submit relevant information and contribute to the on-site, off-site and analysis phases of the investigative process, FRA officials said in a press release.
Key provisions of the rule include prompt notification to relevant stakeholders when an investigation is initiated, allowing them to prepare for participation. Participating stakeholders will have access to relevant investigative data, ensuring transparency throughout the process. Together, these provisions standardize the practices FRA uses during investigations, helping to set clear expectations of when and how to involve stakeholders.
"By inviting stakeholders to participate in FRA investigations, we leverage their expertise and unique insights that can enhance the quality of our investigations, which ultimately leads to a safer rail system for everyone," said FRA Administrator Amit Bose. The final rule can be read here.
Meanwhile, the FRA yesterday announced a notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) for $1 billion in funding to expand and modernize intercity passenger-rail service nationwide through the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger-Rail Program for projects not located on the Northeast Corridor.
The grants will help fund projects that will add new train routes and improve existing train lines across the country, Bose said. Provided through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, the new funding builds on $8.2 billion in grants announced in December 2023 for 10 passenger rail projects across the country, including the first high-speed rail projects in our country’s history. Applications for the funding are due Dec. 16. The NOFO can be read here.