Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg recently expressed concerns over the stalling of legislation aimed at improving railway safety in East Palestine, Ohio. The proposed legislation, known as the Railway Safety Act, has been waiting for action in Congress for nearly a year. Buttigieg questioned why Congress has yet to introduce the bill, especially considering its bipartisan sponsorship and the support it has garnered from the American public.
Buttigieg acknowledged that the railroad industry lobby holds considerable influence in Washington and may be a factor in delaying the legislation. He highlighted the need for tougher penalties for rail companies, as current fines are relatively insignificant compared to their profits. Buttigieg emphasized that the Railway Safety Act includes provisions to impose harsher penalties, accelerate the adoption of stronger tank cars, and enhance communication between railroads and emergency responders. These measures are crucial in preventing future accidents and responding effectively to hazardous material incidents.
Regarding the failure to secure a disaster declaration for East Palestine residents, Buttigieg stated that his focus lies in making railroads safer rather than legal matters related to emergency management. He underscored the efforts being made to enhance railway infrastructure, conduct inspections, and enforce hazardous material regulations. Buttigieg assured that the Biden administration would hold Norfolk Southern accountable for the cleanup and continue supporting the affected community within the confines of the law.
Buttigieg refrained from commenting on President Biden's approval ratings and re-election battle. Instead, he highlighted the accomplishments of the administration, particularly the bipartisan infrastructure law, which has resulted in billions of dollars of infrastructure funding for various states. He cited examples of how Florida has directly benefitted from the infrastructure package, including investments in railroad safety, truck parking, and improvements in Miami and Tampa ports.
Responding to criticism about President Biden's absence from East Palestine, Buttigieg highlighted the ongoing efforts by the administration and argued that Congress should not need further persuasion to pass the legislation. He questioned why it has taken nearly a year for Congress to act on an issue that politicians from both parties claim to care about.
Buttigieg concluded by reiterating the importance of making railroads safer and emphasized the responsibility of Congress to act promptly. He called for immediate action on the Railway Safety Act and expressed his hope that members of Congress would prioritize the safety of communities like East Palestine above political partisanship.
In summary, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg voiced concerns over the stalled progress of the Railway Safety Act in Congress, highlighting the need for stronger penalties for rail companies, improved safety regulations, and better communication between railroads and emergency responders. He acknowledged the influence of the railroad industry lobby and questioned why Congress has yet to act on legislation with bipartisan support. Buttigieg reaffirmed the administration's commitment to railway safety and emphasized the need for Congress to fulfill its role in ensuring the safety of communities like East Palestine.
