Short Lines & Regionals

STB Finalizes Reciprocal Switching Rule (UPDATED, 5/7)

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) on April 30 reported adopting Reciprocal Switching for Inadequate Service, STB Docket No. EP 711 (Sub-No. 2), by unanimous vote, implementing new regulations at 49 CFR part 1145, which it said “sets forth a path for shippers and receivers to petition the Board for the prescription of a reciprocal switching agreement.” The final rule “is designed to promote adequate rail service,” according to the STB. Board Member Robert Primus concurred with a separate expression, noting “I am voting for the final rule because something is better than nothing.” Frank N. Wilner, Railway Age Capitol Hill Contributing Editor, weighs in and provides a reciprocal switching “primer.”

Commentary

Reciprocal Switching: Not Quite Done

The STB has issued its decision in Ex Parte 711 (Sub No. 2). When it issued its proposed rule in October, I wrote that I thought this was an appropriate next step:

Premium
Commentary

Crew Size: ‘It Depends’

FROM THE EDITOR, RAILWAY AGE MAY 2024 ISSUE: Multiple-choice question: How many crew members should occupy a locomotive cab? A) Three. B) Two. C) One. D) Zero. E) None of the Above.

(IANR Photograph)

USDA, NGFA Weigh In on Proposed CN-IANR Combination

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) are recommending several conditions that the Surface Transportation Board (STB) consider if it approves CN’s application to acquire control

(SMART-TD Photograph)

Missouri Rep. Burlison Eyes Nullification of FRA Crew Size Rule

Rep. Eric Burlison (R-Mo.) on April 19 introduced a Congressional Review Act resolution of disapproval that seeks nullification of the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) final rule, 49 CFR Part 218 [Docket No. FRA-2021-0032, Notice No. 5], RIN 2130-AC88, Train Crew Size Safety Requirements, “establishing minimum safety requirements for the size of train crews.”