House Resolution No. [insert number] proposes to designate May 14, 2025, as Rail Day in Michigan. This resolution commemorates National Rail Day, which celebrates the completion of America's first transcontinental railroad on May 11, 1869. It highlights Michigan's extensive freight rail network, consisting of 3,349 miles operated by twenty-nine freight carriers and Amtrak, emphasizing the safety and efficiency of rail transport. The resolution notes significant advancements in rail safety technology, which have led to a 33% reduction in accident rates since 2005 and an 80% decrease in hazmat accident rates per carload.

The resolution also acknowledges the collaboration between railroads and local emergency services to enhance safety measures, such as the Emergency Notification Sign and the AskRail app, which provides first responders with critical information about hazardous materials. Furthermore, it underscores the economic importance of the freight rail system in Michigan, which alleviates road congestion by removing millions of truckloads from highways and supports various industries, including automotive, manufacturing, mining, and agriculture. The resolution calls for recognition and celebration of the vital role that railroads play in the state's economy and infrastructure.