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.
Simple Explanation
The government made a new rule to make sure that train parts used in the U.S. don’t come from places that might not be safe and that these parts don’t use secret stuff from other countries. From early 2025, companies must show they’re following these rules before their trains can be used.