WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 2005

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING RAILROADS; TO CREATE A LIMITATION ON THE LENGTH OF A TRAIN OPERATING IN THIS STATE; TO CREATE A RELATED PENALTY; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ashley Hudson

House Bill 2005 limits train lengths to 8,500 feet in Arkansas, imposing fines for violations to enhance public safety and reduce disruptions to commerce.

Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2005

Summary of House Bill 2005 (HB 2005)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2005 (HB 2005) was introduced in the Arkansas General Assembly to address safety concerns related to the operation of excessively long trains within the state. The bill aims to establish a limitation on train lengths to enhance public safety and minimize disruptions to commerce. The legislation recognizes the potential dangers posed by long trains and seeks to implement regulations to mitigate these risks.

Key Provisions

Train Length Limitation

  • Maximum Length: The bill proposes a maximum train length of 8,500 feet for trains operating on main lines or branch lines in Arkansas.

Definitions

  • Main Line: Defined as a Class I railroad with significant annual traffic (5 million gross tons or more) or intercity/commuter rail services.
  • Branch Line: A secondary track that branches off from a main line.
  • Train: Includes locomotives and cars requiring air brake tests, excluding those used in switching operations or within railroad yards.

Civil Penalties

  • Penalties for Violations:
    • A civil penalty ranging from $500 to $1,000 for each foot over the length limit.
    • An additional penalty for each day of continued violation.
    • A one-time penalty of up to $250,000 for gross negligence or repeated violations leading to imminent hazards.

Collection of Penalties

  • Civil penalties collected will be deposited into the Arkansas Department of Transportation Fund for infrastructure investment.
  • The Director of State Highways and Transportation will determine penalties based on various factors, including the nature of the violation and the violator's history.

Affected Parties

  • Railroad Corporations and Individuals: The bill directly impacts railroad companies and individuals operating trains in Arkansas, imposing new operational limits and financial penalties for non-compliance.
  • Public Safety: The legislation aims to protect residents and communities from the dangers associated with long trains, thereby enhancing overall public safety.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: April 10, 2025
  • Legislative Actions: The bill was read and referred to the Committee on Public Transportation but ultimately died in the House Committee on May 5, 2025, at Sine Die adjournment, meaning it did not progress to a vote or further consideration.

Emergency Clause

The bill included an emergency clause, indicating that its provisions were deemed immediately necessary for the preservation of public safety and commerce in Arkansas. This clause would have allowed the bill to take effect immediately upon approval by the Governor or after a specified period if not vetoed.

Conclusion

While HB 2005 aimed to establish important safety regulations regarding train lengths in Arkansas, it did not advance through the legislative process and ultimately did not become law. The discussions surrounding this bill highlight ongoing concerns about railroad safety and the balance between operational efficiency and public welfare.

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

Sign in to ask a question.