Thompson Statement on DOT's Announced Rules for Trains Carrying Crude Oil

Press Release

U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-5) today released the following statement after the Department of Transportation's (DOT) new regulations issued today for trains carrying highly-flammable crude oil.

"These rules do not go far enough in addressing the safety concerns posed by trains transporting highly volatile crude oil through the heart of our communities," said Thompson. "We need to put robust, comprehensive safety measures in place that will help make sure communities are safe, railcars meet the strongest possible standards, and first responders are prepared in the event of an emergency. DOT's rules do not sufficiently address these issues and so Congress should act to put safety measures in place."

On April 15th, Thompson co-authored and introduced the Crude-by-Rail Safety Act which establishes comprehensive new safety and security standards for the transport of crude oil by rail. The legislation is designed to help protect communities along the nation's railway networks. The legislation comes amid growing concerns that current standards do not address the threat posed by transporting crude oil by rail.

Under Thompson's legislation the use of all DOT-111 tank cars would be eliminated immediately. DOT's rule sets forth a ten-year retrofit schedule that allows the continued use of the most dangerous DOT-111 tank cars for at least 3 more years.

Electronic pneumatic brakes would be required under Thompson's bill 90 days after enactment. DOT requires advanced braking systems, including electronic pneumatic brakes (ECP), but gives railroads 6-8 years to implement them.

DOT's rule puts the onus of communicating rail routing information on state and local entities and first responders, and only requires railroads to provide states with contact information from which they can request information. Thompson's legislation would require railroads to provide this information on a weekly basis to state and local officials as well as providing emergency information and contacts in case of an accident.

DOT's rule does not include regulations that require rail inspections or address infrastructure. Thompson's bill requires additional rail inspections to help identify rail flaws before they become an issue that can cause an accident.

Additionally, Thompson's bill establishes a maximum volatility standard for crude oil transported by rail. By reducing volatility, you reduce the likelihood of explosions on impact. The bill also establishes the strongest tank car standards to-date.

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