TRAIN OPERATION; CREW SIZE REQ. S.B. 100 (S-1):
SUMMARY OF BILL
ON THIRD READING
Senate Bill 100 (Substitute S-1 as reported by the Committee of the Whole (Senate-passed version)
Sponsor: Senator Erika Geiss
Committee: Transportation and Infrastructure
CONTENT
The bill would amend the Railroad Code to prohibit a train engaged in transporting freight
from operating unless the train was operated by a crew of at least two individuals. The bill's
prohibition would not apply if the train were operating a locomotive in hostler service or in
helper service or if Federal law or regulation was in effect requiring a train engaged in
transporting freight in the State to have a crew of not fewer than two individuals.
Under the bill, "train" would mean one or more locomotives coupled with one or more freight
cars. "Helper service" would mean assisting a train that is experiencing a mechanical failure
or that is ascending or descending a grade by coupling a locomotive to the front or rear of
the train. "Hostler service" would mean moving a train or locomotive a short distance within
a railroad yard or mechanical facility.
Proposed MCL 462.352
BRIEF RATIONALE
Testimony before the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure indicates that,
from January 2022 to April 2023, Michigan had five train derailments. Three involved
dangerous materials, though none of the cars carrying them were breached; however, in
February 2023, a train derailment involving 50 train cars near East Palestine, Ohio, led to the
release of hazardous waste. Trains carrying non-hazardous waste also can cause harm if
derailed. They may combust, crash into traffic or buildings, and more. To increase railroad
safety, the U.S. Department of Transportation issued a rule mandating two-person crews in
2024.1 Accordingly, it has been suggested that Michigan align its Railroad Code with Federal
regulations.
Legislative Analyst: Abby Schneider
FISCAL IMPACT
The bill would have no fiscal impact on State or local government.
Date Completed: 12-4-24 Fiscal Analyst: Bobby Canell
1
Walker, Mark, "U.S. Finalizes Rule Requiring Two-Person Crews on Freight Trains", The New York
Times, April 2, 2024.
floor\sb100 Bill Analysis @ www.senate.michigan.gov/sfa
This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not
constitute an official statement of legislative intent.


Statutes affected:
Substitute (S-1): 462.101, 462.451
Senate Introduced Bill: 462.101, 462.451
As Passed by the Senate: 462.101, 462.451