FRA Scraps Unneeded Track Surface Runoff Requirement
Published Date: 7/1/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FRA is removing a rule about track surface runoff for tracks Classes 1 through 5 because other rules already keep things safe. This change affects railroads and helps simplify track inspections without costing extra money. It’s a smart update that keeps safety strong while cutting unnecessary steps.
No Economic Impacts Identified for this Document
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-17904, National Environmental Policy Act Regulations
FHWA, FRA, and FTA (collectively referred to as the "Agencies") are finalizing the interim final rule (IFR) published on July 3, 2025, which revised the Agencies' National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 implementing regulations in light of the removal of the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) regulations, the amendments to NEPA included in the section of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FR Act) of 2023, known as the Building United States Infrastructure through Limited Delays and Efficient Reviews (BUILDER) Act of 2023, amendments regarding efficient environmental reviews included in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) of 2021, and the Supreme Court decision in Seven County Infrastructure Coalition. The Agencies provided a 30-day comment period for the public to review and comment on the IFR. This final rule addresses public comments received and finalizes the IFR with minor technical changes.
2026-19031, Safety Advisory 2025-02; Track Is Clear Determination During Shoving or Pushing Movements Across Highway-Rail Grade Crossings Equipped Only With Flashing Lights or Passive Warning Devices (Supplement)
The Federal Railroad Administration is stepping up safety for railroad crews pushing or shoving trains across crossings with just flashing lights or passive warnings. After more accidents, including one death, they’re adding new rules: railroads must hold in-person safety briefings and review training programs. These changes aim to keep workers safer without extra costs or delays.
2026-18981, Proposed Agency Information Collection Activities; Comment Request
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2026-18982, Proposed Agency Information Collection Activities; Comment Request
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2026-18986, Surface Transportation Project Delivery Program; Ohio Department of Transportation Audit Report
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2026-17996, Safety Advisory 2026-01; Restricted Speed
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-12188, Removing Stenciling Requirement for Freight Cars Used for Tourist, Historic, Excursion, Educational, Recreational, or Private Purposes and Not Interchanged
If you own or operate old freight cars just for fun—like tourist rides, historic trips, or private use—and don’t swap them with other railroads, you won’t have to paint those annoying stencil markings anymore. This change makes life easier and saves money for folks keeping railroad history alive. It kicks in once the rule is official, so get ready to enjoy simpler rules soon!
Next: 2025-12192, Repealing Special Approval Requirement for Freight Cars More Than 50 Years Old
The FRA is making it easier for railroads to use freight cars over 50 years old by removing the need for special approval. Instead, these older cars just need to pass regular safety checks like inspections and brake tests. This change speeds things up, keeps safety strong, and saves railroads time and hassle.