The bill introduced on March 10, 2025, seeks to amend the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 17C-1-71, which defines "on-track equipment" as any tender, motor unit, freight or passenger car, or other equipment used on railroad tracks, including maintenance equipment for the rail system. Additionally, it amends existing provisions in 17C-12-1 regarding the obedience to signals indicating the approach of a train, expanding the language to include "other on-track equipment" in various contexts where drivers must stop at railroad crossings.

Specifically, the bill stipulates that drivers must stop within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail when a signal warns of an approaching train or other on-track equipment, when a crossing gate is lowered, or when a flagman signals. It also requires drivers to stop if an approaching train or other on-track equipment is visible and poses a hazard. The penalties for non-compliance remain the same, with a fine of $100 or up to 10 days of imprisonment, and the potential for three points to be added to the violator's driver's license record, unless the signal device is malfunctioning.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17C-12-1, 17C-1-71
Engrossed Version: 17C-12-1, 17C-1-71