Railroads; prohibiting operation of trains exceeding a certain length. Effective date.

SB 597 prohibits railroad companies in Oklahoma from operating trains longer than 8,500 feet or exceeding the length of the shortest siding or passing track on main or branch lines, and limits train-related intersection blockages to 10 minutes. It directly affects railroad operators by imposing specific length restrictions on trains traveling on Oklahoma rail routes. Violations trigger civil fines of $500-$1,000 per foot of excess length, with potential $250,000 fines for gross negligence causing injury or death. Penalties collected fund the State Transportation Fund, and the Oklahoma Transportation Commission enforces compliance, with the Attorney General able to pursue legal action for unpaid fines. The bill takes effect November 1, 2025.