§20170 Pre-revenue service safety validation plan

Summary

Railroads starting new intercity or commuter service, extending service, or restarting service stopped for more than 180 days must send a safety validation plan to the Secretary of Transportation at least 60 days before revenue service begins. The plan must include safety milestones, a minimum period of simulated revenue service, and proof that safety‑sensitive workers are trained and qualified. The railroad must follow the plan and may not change it without telling the Secretary. Service cannot start until the plan’s requirements and simulated service are finished. The Secretary must write rules that require fixing any safety problems before service begins and set deadlines so reviews do not cause undue delay.