The resolution from the 136th General Assembly of Ohio urges Congress to establish a special committee to investigate the train derailment that occurred in East Palestine, Ohio, on February 3, 2023. The derailment involved a freight train carrying hazardous materials, which led to evacuations, fires, and the release of toxic substances into the environment. Emergency crews conducted controlled burns to prevent explosions, resulting in hazardous smoke being released into the air. Concerns have been raised regarding the long-term health impacts of the incident, including potential cancer clusters, as indicated by newly obtained documents from FEMA.

In light of these events, the resolution calls for Congress to not only investigate the derailment but also to examine the response of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to the situation. It specifically requests that members of the Ohio Congressional delegation be appointed to the special committee. The resolution emphasizes the need for thorough oversight and accountability regarding the federal response to the environmental and public health implications of the derailment, and it mandates that copies of the resolution be sent to key federal officials and the media.