Recent Actions in Congress and Federal Agencies

News from APTA (the American Public Transportation Association) regarding recent actions in Congress and Federal Agencies

HOUSE PASSES RAIL SAFETY IMPROVEMENT ACT On Wednesday October 17, the House of Representatives passed the Federal Railroad Safety Improvement Act of 2007 by a vote of 377-38. The bill makes a number of changes that apply to commuter railroads, including changes in the current hours of service laws, a mandate for positive train controls, and other modifications. During floor debate, the House adopted an amendment by the bill's sponsor, House Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman James Oberstar (D-MN) which expands inspection requirements for freight and commuter rail bridges. The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation reported its version of rail safety legislation last month, but the full Senate still needs to act on that bill.

RULEMAKINGS OPEN FOR COMMENTS Seven rulemakings, covering a wide swath of FTA programs including New Starts/Small Starts, Procurement, and Grant Management, remain open for comments. APTA is working with FTA to stagger due dates for the four drafts released on September 28, since together they amount to over 400 pages of draft circulars to review. You can find the proposals, draft comments, filing information and more by clicking HERE.