A bipartisan group of United States Senators has introduced the Railway Safety Act of 2026, legislation aimed at strengthening federal rail safety standards following lessons learned from recent derailments, including the 2023 incident in East Palestine, Ohio.

The bill was introduced by Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Jon Husted (R-OH) and is cosponsored by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), John Fetterman (D-PA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), and Eric Schmitt (R-MO).

The legislation proposes a series of reforms focused on detection technology, hazardous materials transportation, inspection practices, and emergency response coordination. Key provisions would require more frequent deployment of wayside defect detectors, expand the list of hazardous materials subject to enhanced safety requirements, strengthen railcar inspection and maintenance expectations, increase potential penalties for safety violations, and require two crew members on freight trains. The bill also includes measures to improve information sharing with states and support first responders responding to derailments.

Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen Legislative Director Mike Efaw said the bill reflects continued momentum toward comprehensive rail safety improvements.

“For over a decade, the NTSB has recommended establishing clear requirements for defect detectors. It’s time to turn that recommendation into reality,” Efaw said. “Strengthening inspection standards and improving coordination with communities are meaningful steps toward a safer rail system for workers and the public. This legislation is a strong starting point in advancing rail safety nationwide.”

The Railway Safety Act of 2026 now moves forward for Congressional consideration. Further details and bill text are available here.