Pennsylvania News

– 202404Two Person Train Crews 42606

Major freight railroads will be required to maintain two-person crews in most situations under a new federal rule. The Transportation Department's Federal Railroad Administration released the details of the rule the agency has been developing for the past two years on Tuesday morning. The rule comes amidst intense focus on railroad safety following the fiery derailment in eastern Ohio in February 2023. Rail unions have long opposed one-person crews due to safety and job concerns. Unions and regulators assert that the second crew member plays a critical safety role in helping operate the train and serving as a first responder in the event of a problem. Railroads have sought the ability to operate trains with only one person and move conductors to ground-based positions.