Safe Freight Act of 2024

HR 9074, the Safe Freight Act of 2024, requires major freight railroads to operate most trains with a minimum two-person crew (one conductor and one engineer) on main-line tracks. This applies to trains on tracks carrying significant traffic (over 5 million gross tons annually) with speeds exceeding 25 mph, unless specific exceptions apply - such as short-distance moves, non-main-line operations, or existing low-crew operations deemed safe. The law specifically prohibits these exceptions for trains carrying hazardous materials (like flammable liquids, explosives, or toxic gases) or those exceeding 7,500 feet in length. The bill aims to standardize safety crew requirements without altering existing federal safety authority.