Illinois Railroads Push for 3D Simulation Training Waivers
Published Date: 1/23/2026
Notice
Summary
Illinois Central Railroad and its U.S. subsidiaries want to change some training rules for their workers, using more 3D simulation instead of hands-on practice. They’ve asked the government to update their current waiver, and the public can share thoughts by February 23, 2026. This could make training easier and possibly save time and money for the railroads.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 2 mixed.
Expand Simulation to Field Staff
If you work for Illinois Central/CN as a field supervisor or an employee who repairs freight cars, CN has asked FRA to let simulation training (three-dimensional, web-based or desktop software) satisfy the required "hands-on" portion of training under 49 CFR 232.203(b)(8). FRA previously granted relief limited to locomotive engineers and conductors by letter dated May 2, 2023; CN petitioned to expand that relief by letter dated August 13, 2025 (Docket FRA-2020-0087).
Allow Simulation Every Training Cycle
If you are covered by CN's waiver, CN asks FRA to allow simulation training in every refresher training cycle instead of alternating simulation cycles with operational testing/field hands-on training. The current May 2, 2023 relief required alternation; CN requested this change in a petition dated August 13, 2025 (Docket FRA-2020-0087).
Limit Employee Opt-Out Rights
If you are a CN employee covered by the waiver, CN asked FRA to remove the existing option that allows employees to opt out of simulation training (the sixth condition of the May 2, 2023 relief), except in certain circumstances. CN made this request in its August 13, 2025 petition (Docket FRA-2020-0087).
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous: 2026-01325, Notice of Petition for Extension of Waiver of Compliance
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.
Next: 2026-01327, Notice of Petition for Waiver of Compliance
Union Pacific Railroad wants to change how it trains its workers by using 3D simulations online instead of in-person hands-on sessions. This could make training more high-tech and flexible without cutting corners. The public can share their thoughts by February 23, 2026, before the Federal Railroad Administration decides.