U.S. Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Chris Deluzio (D-PA) are touting the recently introduced Assistance for Local Heroes During Train Crises Act, which seeks to aid those who respond to train derailments.
“Emergency personnel that respond to devastating accidents, including train derailments, are the first line of defense for public safety,” Fitzpatrick said. “Our bipartisan Assistance for Local Heroes During Train Crises Act will ensure that the Department of Transportation is adequately communicating with local emergency response officials, improving coordination and preparedness. I am proud to join Representative Deluzio in introducing this legislation that will ensure our first responders have the resources they need before, during, and after hazardous derailments.”
Emergency responders and law enforcement officials were overwhelmed by the Norfolk Southern train derailment that occurred earlier this year because of a lack of resources.
The Assistance for Local Heroes During Train Crises Act would ensure communities are equipped with adequate resources for responding to those emergencies.
“When massive rail corporations derail in communities, it’s local governments and first responders who are left to pay the bill, clean up the mess, and protect the public,” Deluzio said. “It is time to pay them back with more than gratitude, and I am proud to partner with Rep. Fitzpatrick on this legislation. The Assistance for Local Heroes During Train Crises Act will help communities across the country better prepare for future derailments with improved information-sharing and will cover the cost of damaged equipment, overtime pay, and more—all paid for by the companies that ship and carry these materials.”