Railroad Begs Feds to Skip Movable Bridge Rules

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.

2026-17996, Safety Advisory 2026-01; Restricted Speed

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is reminding railroads and their workers to stick to 'restricted speed' rules to keep trains safe. This comes after seven recent accidents where trains didn’t slow down enough, especially in areas with Positive Train Control (PTC) systems. Railroads need to double-check their training and testing to make sure everyone can stop trains safely, or else risk more accidents and possible fines.

2026-17784, Amendments to Brake System Maintenance and Inspection Requirements

Starting September 30, 2026, new rules will make brake inspections and maintenance for passenger and freight trains clearer and safer by turning long-standing exceptions into official regulations. This update affects rail companies and helps avoid confusion about brake system checks, supporting better safety without extra costs. It’s all about keeping trains running smoothly and safely with smarter, simpler rules.

2026-17790, Retiring Form FRA F 6180.107 and Form FRA F 6180.150

This rule retires Form FRA F 6180.107, "Alternative Record for Illnesses Claimed to be Work-Related" (Form 6180.107), and Form FRA F 6180.150, "Highway User Injury Inquiry Form" (Form 6180.150). This rule also changes the record retention period required under FRA's accident reporting regulations and makes other technical corrections.

2026-17783, Regulatory Relief From Locomotive Horn Sounding Pattern at Public Highway-Rail Grade Crossings

Starting September 30, 2026, train engineers can switch from the old horn pattern to just one single blast when near public highway-rail crossings. This change affects all trains and locomotives stopping close to these crossings, making horn use simpler and less noisy. It’s a smart move to cut red tape without costing extra money or risking safety.

2026-17787, Repealing Special Approval Requirement for Freight Cars More Than 50 Years Old

Starting September 30, 2026, railroads no longer need special approval to use freight cars over 50 years old or with certain older parts. Instead, they just have to notify the Federal Railroad Administration and provide some info, making things faster and easier. This change helps railroads save time and cut red tape without extra costs.

Previous: 2026-18385, Request for Comments Regarding Implementation of 19 U.S.C. 1338(g)

Pursuant to section 338(g) of the Tariff Act of 1930, the United States International Trade Commission (Commission) has a duty to ascertain and at all times to be informed of discriminations against the commerce of the United States pursuant to section 338(a), (b), and (e) and to provide the President with this information as well as recommendations. In furtherance of this duty, and as described in further detail below, the Commission invites comments from interested persons regarding how the Commission can best meet its statutory obligations under Section 338(g).

Next: 2026-18387, Daxor Corporation