Search Results for agency_names:"Federal Railroad Administration"

In response to a Congressional requirement from the SUPPORT Act, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is proposing a new rule to include mechanical (MECH) employees, who test or inspect railroad equipment, under its alcohol and drug regulations. This proposed rule aims to extend current regulations, initially designed for maintenance-of-way and covered service employees, to MECH employees. FRA believes that enforcing random and pre-employment drug tests could deter substance misuse among MECH employees, thereby enhancing safety. The proposed changes would also include guidelines for small railroads and contractors to ensure compliance and minimize burdens.

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has finalized a rule to implement the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, specifically its section 22425. This rule amends the Freight Car Safety Standards to enforce restrictions on new freight cars introduced in the U.S. It prohibits using sensitive technology and components originating from countries of concern or state-owned enterprises, as well as materials that infringe on U.S. intellectual property rights. From January 21, 2025, freight car manufacturers must certify compliance with these standards to operate their vehicles in the United States.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a final rule to revise civil penalty amounts for violations of various transportation regulations, effective December 30, 2024. These adjustments are required by the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act and are meant to ensure that penalties maintain their deterrent effect by accounting for inflation. The rule covers a wide array of areas including aviation, hazardous materials, and vehicle safety, among others. The adjustments apply prospectively, meaning they will only affect violations occurring after the rule takes effect.

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has issued a notice to collect public comments on a proposed Information Collection Request (ICR) related to grants management and cooperative agreements, under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA). The notice seeks input on the necessity, accuracy, and potential burden of these information collection activities, focusing on improving the quality of data collected and minimizing public inconvenience through technology. The FRA has adjusted its burden estimates, reducing annual burden hours and responses, and emphasizes that the data collected will help ensure accountability in the use of federal assistance for railroad projects. People can submit comments until January 9, 2025.

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is asking for public comments on an information collection request about the control of alcohol and drug use in railroad operations before it submits the request for approval. This collection helps ensure railroad safety by testing employees for alcohol and drugs. The FRA aims to gather feedback on the necessity, accuracy, and efficiency of the information collected. The public has until May 12, 2025, to submit comments related to this on the website www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FRA-2025-0012.

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) of the Department of Transportation is seeking public comments on a proposed Information Collection Request (ICR) under the Paperwork Reduction Act. This request involves developing new metrics and standards to evaluate the performance of intercity passenger trains, like those operated by Amtrak. The FRA asks for comments on several aspects of this information collection, including its necessity, efficiency, and how it might be enhanced or simplified. Comments should be submitted by March 22, 2021, to ensure they are fully considered.

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), part of the Department of Transportation, has issued a notice regarding the collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. This notice informs the public that the FRA is seeking approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for an Information Collection Request (ICR) regarding hours of service regulations for railroad employees. The public is invited to comment on this request by March 31, 2025. The request seeks to continue collecting data related to train employee work schedules to ensure safe working conditions and reduce fatigue-related accidents.

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) of the Department of Transportation is asking for public comments on its Information Collection Request (ICR) concerning railroad accident and incident reports. These reports are crucial for understanding collisions, derailments, and injuries involving railroads, which are submitted monthly by 765 railroads. The FRA aims to ensure the collection process is necessary, practical, and efficient, and is also seeking ways to reduce the burden on businesses. The public can submit their feedback by April 19, 2021, as part of the approval process with the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), part of the Department of Transportation, has withdrawn a proposed rule regarding the investigation of railroad accidents and incidents. The rule, initially published in October 2024, aimed to establish a standard process for information gathering and consultation with stakeholders during investigations. The decision to retract follows two negative comments criticizing insufficiencies and potential issues, including vague definitions and conflicts with existing practices. The withdrawal allows FRA to revisit the proposal and work with stakeholders to address concerns.

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has issued an emergency order that mandates the wearing of face masks by railroad personnel to reduce the spread of COVID-19 as directed by the CDC. This order, effective March 1, 2021, applies to all freight rail operations and certain passenger rail operations under FRA’s jurisdiction, though not in areas already covered by the TSA’s mask requirements. The FRA’s decision follows inconsistent mask-wearing practices observed by inspectors and aims to protect railroad workers, inspectors, and public health. Non-compliance may result in penalties, and specific exemptions exist for certain situations and individuals.