FRA Sets 2026 Minimum Testing Rates for Railroad Workers

2026-06198 — Notice of Petition for Special Approval of Alternative Standard

IS Technology Solutions asked the Federal Railroad Administration to approve a new way to test single railcar air brakes using an automatic device instead of the old manual method. This change could speed up testing and reduce how often the device needs calibration, saving time and effort. People involved in railroad safety and equipment testing should share their thoughts by April 30, 2026.

2026-04272 — Notice of Petition for Extension of Waiver of Compliance

The Pennsylvania Northeast Regional Railroad Authority, Lackawanna County, and Delaware-Lackawanna Railroad Company want to keep their special permission to skip some railroad safety rules for their shared tracks. They asked the Federal Railroad Administration to extend this waiver, and the public can share their thoughts by April 3, 2026. This helps these groups keep things running smoothly without extra costs or delays while staying safe.

2026-04117 — Notice of Petition for Extension of Waiver of Compliance

The Michigan State Trust for Railway Preservation wants to keep using three super old cabooses without following some usual safety rules about painting and reflectors. These cabooses won’t carry freight but will be used for photos and movies. People have until April 1, 2026, to share their thoughts before a final decision is made.

2025-12124 — Amendments to the Federal Railroad Administration's Procedures for Service of Documents in Railroad Safety Enforcement Proceedings

The Federal Railroad Administration is updating its rules to require sending safety enforcement documents electronically, making things faster and easier. This change affects railroad companies and anyone involved in safety cases, with new steps for handling fines too. These updates kick in soon and aim to keep everything clear and up-to-date without extra costs.

2025-12364 — Revision of National Environmental Policy Act Regulations

The FHWA, FRA, and FTA are updating their rules to make environmental reviews faster and simpler, following new laws and removed regulations. This change affects anyone involved in big infrastructure projects and starts right away, aiming to cut delays and save money. The agencies will keep listening for ideas to improve these rules even more.

2026-04701 — The National Railroad Passenger Corporation's (Amtrak) Request To Amend Its Positive Train Control System

Amtrak wants to update its safety system that helps prevent train crashes, called Positive Train Control (PTC). This change affects Amtrak trains and aims to keep passengers safer without causing delays or extra costs. The public can share their thoughts by March 30, 2026, before the update moves forward.

Previous: 2026-00166 — Notice of Agreements Filed

Big shipping players are teaming up and adding new partners to make port services smoother and more efficient around New York and New Jersey. Plus, two major ocean carriers are sharing space on their ships to boost trade between the U.S., Europe, and parts of the Americas. These changes kick in early 2026 and later, helping ports and shippers move goods faster without extra costs for now.

Next: 2026-00168 — Certain Glycerol Esters of Rosin and Packaging Thereof; Institution of Investigation

T&R Chemicals from Texas has asked the U.S. International Trade Commission to investigate certain imported glycerol esters of rosin and their packaging for unfair competition, like false advertising. If the claim is true, the Commission might stop these imports to protect U.S. businesses. This investigation started in early January 2026 and could impact companies selling or importing these products, possibly affecting sales and market access.