This bill amends the law regarding the operation and maintenance of railroads in Arkansas by establishing standard requirements for railroad train defect detectors and trending defect detector technology. It introduces a new subchapter titled "Train Defect Detector Safety," which outlines the definitions, minimum requirements, and procedures for defect detection. The bill mandates that defect detectors be equipped with specific technologies, such as hot box detectors and dragging equipment detectors, and that they provide audible alarms and messages to alert operating crews of any detected defects. Additionally, it requires the publication of information regarding defect detectors and mandates procedures for addressing discrepancies in axle counts detected by these devices.

The bill also imposes civil penalties for violations of the new regulations, with fines ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 per day for ongoing violations, and a one-time penalty of $500,000 for gross negligence or repeated violations that result in imminent hazards or injuries. Furthermore, it stipulates that railroad corporations have twelve months from the effective date of the act to ensure compliance with the new requirements for defect detectors. This legislation aims to enhance safety and reduce risks associated with railroad operations in the state, particularly in light of recent derailments and the lack of federal oversight in this area.