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HR 104

In memory of John Saunders.

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kellie Deeter

Designates May 14, 2025 as Rail Day in Michigan to recognize rail safety, economic impact, and its role in reducing truck traffic on roads (ceremonial, non-binding).

Adopted
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Bill Summary · HR 104

Summary — House Resolution 104 (Rail Day in Michigan)

Status: Adopted
Introduced: January 3, 2025
House adoption / declared date: May 14, 2025
Primary sponsor (introduced by): Rep. Kathy Schmaltz (with additional House co-sponsors listed in the enrolled resolution)

Purpose and intent

House Resolution 104 is a ceremonial (non-binding) resolution that designates May 14, 2025, as "Rail Day" in the state of Michigan. Its stated purpose is to recognize and celebrate the importance of Michigan’s freight and passenger rail system to public safety, economic activity, and transportation infrastructure.

Key provisions

  • Officially declares May 14, 2025, as Rail Day in the state of Michigan.
  • Recognizes historical context: National Rail Day in May commemorates completion of the first U.S. transcontinental railroad (May 11, 1869).
  • Acknowledges the scope of Michigan’s rail network: 3,349 freight rail miles operated by 29 freight carriers plus Amtrak passenger service.
  • Highlights safety and technology improvements:
    • Accident rates reduced by about 33% since 2005 due to technologies such as train inspection portals and cracked wheel detection.
    • Hazardous-material (hazmat) accident rates per carload down roughly 80% since 2005; more than 99.99% of hazmat shipments arrive without a release caused by a train accident.
    • Promotion of Emergency Notification Signs (ENS, blue safety signs) at rail crossings and availability of the AskRail app for first responders to identify hazardous materials on railcars.
  • Notes rail’s role in reducing highway congestion (removing an estimated 4.7 million truckloads from Michigan roads annually) and supporting key state industries (automotive, manufacturing, mining, agriculture).

Who is affected / impacted

  • The resolution is largely symbolic and does not change law or regulatory authority. It primarily:
    • Recognizes Michigan rail operators and Amtrak.
    • Acknowledges first responders and emergency-management partners who work with railroads.
    • Affirms the economic value of rail to industries and communities across Michigan.
    • Raises public awareness about rail safety tools and congestion/environmental benefits.

Procedural / timeline notes

  • Introduced in the Michigan House on January 3, 2025.
  • Referred to committee and progressed through the usual House calendars.
  • Rules were suspended and the resolution was placed on—and adopted from—the Congratulatory & Memorial Resolutions Calendar.
  • Enrolled, signed by the Speaker, and presented/commemorated in accordance with House procedures; the designated Rail Day is May 14, 2025.

Legal effect

This is a commemorative House resolution. It does not appropriate funds, create regulatory obligations, or amend statutes. Its effect is to express the legislative body’s recognition and encouragement regarding rail safety, investments, and the economic role of rail in Michigan.

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

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