FRA Issues Notice for Trespassing Information Collection

Written by Marybeth Luczak, Executive Editor
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The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has proposed collecting trespassing data from law enforcement agencies to help determine root causes and reduce the number of injuries and fatalities on railroad property.

In a March 15 Federal Register notice (download below), FRA said the move will allow the industry; government (federal, state and local); and other interested parties, such as Operation Lifesaver, to learn more about individuals who trespass and develop appropriate education and enforcement programs, materials, and campaigns on the hazards and consequences of trespassing.

Law enforcement agencies that receive FRA’s Railroad Trespassing Enforcement Grants would be required to complete a web-based form for each incident in their jurisdiction, “describing the trespassers’ race/ethnicity, gender and age to the best of their abilities,” according to FRA. The form would be voluntary for agencies that do not receive grants.

FRA is seeking comments and recommendations on or before May 14, prior to submitting the information collection request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for approval.

In related developments, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has wrapped up a four-year study to develop a more complete understanding of trespassing on the state’s rail network.

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