Vegas-to-LA Bullet Trains Seek Looser Rules on Metal and Roofs
Published Date: 11/19/2025
Notice
Summary
Brightline West wants to change some safety rules for their new high-speed trains running between Las Vegas and Southern California. They’re asking for permission to tweak rules about metal parts, emergency communication, and roof safety. If you have thoughts, you’ve got until December 19, 2025, to speak up—this could speed up their service without extra costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Brightline West seeks safety-rule relief
Brightline West filed a petition (docket FRA-2020-0096, letter dated July 24, 2025) asking the Federal Railroad Administration to modify a waiver for Tier III passenger rolling stock that would relieve compliance with parts of 49 CFR parts 229 and 238. The petition specifically requests relief from 49 CFR 229.83, 238.121, and 238.123 about insulation/ground of metal parts, emergency communication, and emergency roof access for trains on the Las Vegas, Nevada to Southern California route.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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