Attorney General Kwame Raoul has taken the lead in a coalition of 15 attorneys general to support a Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) rule. This rule mandates that freight and passenger trains generally be staffed with at least two crew members.
Raoul and his coalition argue that recent train accidents have had severe consequences for local communities across the nation. These incidents, including derailments, result in fatalities, injuries, strain on local resources, and environmental damage requiring extensive remediation efforts.
"Research shows that crew members operate trains more safely when working as part of a team because they can coordinate with one another, provide backup in emergency situations, solve problems together and protect against fatigue," stated Raoul. "That’s why I am leading my fellow attorneys general in support of the Federal Railroad Administration’s minimum staffing requirement. I will continue to advocate for safe working conditions and safe railways in Illinois and across the country."
The coalition emphasizes that minimum staffing requirements create safer work environments for crew members who endure long hours performing demanding tasks. They believe this approach reduces the risk of train accidents that harm residents and the environment.
According to the attorneys general, the FRA's rule aligns with research and is essential for public safety. It balances ensuring safe train operations while allowing technological advancements by permitting one-person crews only after a risk assessment confirms safety.
Joining Raoul in filing the brief are attorneys general from Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Washington.