MBTA Requests Extension of Train Safety Reporting Waiver
Published Date: 1/23/2026
Notice
Summary
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) asked the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to extend a special waiver that protects their train crew members from punishment when they report safety close calls. This helps keep trains safer by encouraging honest reporting without fear. The public can share their thoughts on this by February 23, 2026, but no money changes are involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
MBTA Crew Shielded from Discipline
By letter dated October 7, 2025, MBTA asked FRA to extend a waiver so MBTA operating crew members who report ‘‘close calls’’ to the Confidential Close Call Reporting System (C3RS) are protected from mandatory punitive sanctions that would otherwise arise under 49 CFR part 240 and part 242 (for example, sections 240.117(e)(1)-(4); 240.305(a)(1)-(4) and (a)(6); 240.307; and 242.403 and 242.407). The petition (Docket FRA-2014-0127) would let reporting employees avoid discipline for covered reports while MBTA continues C3RS participation.
C3RS Produced Safety Improvements
MBTA states its participation in FRA's C3RS program has produced safety improvements, including additional signage to address recurring equipment-based restrictions, a sleep apnea program, and a ‘‘comprehensive risk assessment methodology’’ implemented in compliance with 49 CFR part 270. These changes are tied to MBTA’s C3RS reports and the Implementing Memorandum of Understanding (IMOU) that includes its operating partner Keolis and several labor unions.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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