Reps. Dan Lipinski (D-IL) and Mike Quigley (D-IL) have introduced the Reassuring Adequate Investment in Lifesaving Systems (RAILS) Act to reauthorize the Rail Safety Technology Grant program and improve the safety of the nation’s railroads.
“Representing a district that includes four commuter rail lines, Amtrak and six of the country's seven Class I freight railroads, I understand how important rail safety is,” Lipinski said. “This bill dedicates funding and resources to benefit the safety of millions of Americans as a key part of the Chicagoland economy moves to modernize its safety systems to comply with the positive train control requirement."
Quigley said the bill will provide the money necessary to ensure railroads continue to function.
“As the nation’s rail hub, nowhere are investments in safety technology more crucial than in Chicago," Quigley said. "Yet, commuter railroads like Metra lack the funding necessary to ensure new safety technologies like positive train control are implemented the right way. Reauthorizing the Rail Safety Technology Grant program will provide the critical funding and support needed for commuter railroads around the country to modernize their infrastructure and keep their passengers safe.”
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