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SF 23

A bill for an act relating to the payment of costs by railroad track owners and railroad corporations for certain railroad construction, maintenance, and other related projects.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill SF 23 shifts financial responsibility for railroad safety and maintenance costs from the DOT to railroad corporations, impacting budgets and public safety at crossings.

Subcommittee recommends amendment and passage.
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Bill Summary · SF 23

Summary of Bill SF 23

Title: A bill for an act relating to the payment of costs by railroad track owners and railroad corporations for certain railroad construction, maintenance, and other related projects.

Status: Subcommittee recommends amendment and passage.

Introduced: January 14, 2025

Classification: Bill

Subject Areas:
- Construction Work
- Corporations
- Insurance
- Primary Road Fund
- Railroad Crossings
- Railroads
- Right-of-Way
- Transportation Department
- Treasurer of State
- Warning Devices

Purpose and Intent

Bill SF 23 aims to amend existing laws regarding the financial responsibilities of railroad track owners and corporations concerning construction, maintenance, and safety projects related to railroad operations. The primary intent is to shift the financial burden for certain costs from the Department of Transportation (DOT) and other governmental entities to the railroad corporations themselves.

Key Provisions

  1. Cost Responsibility Shift:

    • The bill mandates that railroad track owners and corporations are solely responsible for the costs associated with:
      • The installation of warning devices at crossings.
      • The construction and maintenance of private farm crossings.
      • The construction and maintenance of grade crossings that intersect highways.
      • The removal of unused crossings.

  2. Transfer of Right-of-Way:

    • If a railroad corporation transfers a railroad right-of-way to a non-corporate entity, it must cover the costs of any necessary improvements related to that right-of-way before the transfer occurs or according to a mutually agreed schedule.

  3. Repeal of Existing Funds:

    • The bill repeals provisions related to the highway grade crossing safety fund and the highway railroad grade crossing surface repair fund. Any remaining funds from these repealed accounts will be redirected to the road use tax fund.

Impact

  • Railroad Corporations: The bill will significantly increase the financial responsibilities of railroad corporations, as they will no longer receive assistance from the DOT for the costs associated with safety and maintenance projects.

  • Local Governments: Local government entities may need to adjust their budgets and planning processes, as they will no longer rely on state funds for certain railroad-related projects.

  • Public Safety: The shift in financial responsibility may impact the timely installation and maintenance of safety devices at crossings, potentially affecting public safety.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 14, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Transportation Committee.
  • January 15, 2025: Subcommittee formed, consisting of members Shipley, Webster, and Winckler.
  • January 23, 2025: Subcommittee meeting scheduled for January 27, 2025, at 2:30 PM in the Senate Lounge.
  • January 27, 2025: Subcommittee recommends amendment and passage of the bill.

This summary provides an overview of Bill SF 23, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on stakeholders involved in railroad operations and safety.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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