Senators Introduce $200 Billion Rail Safety Bill

Senator Ed Markey has introduced the All Aboard Act, a significant piece of legislation aimed at enhancing the U.S. rail system by allocating $200 billion over five years for high-speed rail development and electrification of major rail corridors. The bill seeks to improve both passenger and freight rail services, supporting the transition to zero-emissions locomotives by 2047, with interim targets for 2030 and 2035. Representative Chris Deluzio is leading a companion bill in the House, emphasizing the importance of safety and efficiency in rail transport. The All Aboard Act is backed by over 20 environmental and labor organizations, reflecting a broad coalition in favor of modernizing rail infrastructure. Markey highlighted the potential of this bill to bring U.S. rail services in line with advanced systems in Europe and Asia, ultimately reducing air pollution while enhancing mobility for Americans. This initiative marks a crucial step towards revitalizing America's rail industry, which has lagged in electrification compared to global counterparts.