The "Secure Tracks Act" aims to significantly enhance railroad track safety by amending title 49 of the U.S. Code to strengthen inspection requirements. It mandates that all main line track designated for operation at Class 3 speeds or higher must undergo visual inspection by a qualified inspector at least twice each week, with a minimum one-calendar-day interval between inspections. A crucial provision requires the immediate remediation of any defect or unsafe condition identified through any inspection method. Qualified inspectors are granted the sole authority to initiate remedial action and authorize subsequent movements for repairs when deviations from safety regulations are found. The legislation also prohibits the Secretary of Transportation from granting waivers, exemptions, or modifications to safety regulations if proposed alternative inspection methods fail to detect all unsafe defect conditions, thereby ensuring no compromise to existing safety standards. Within one year, the Secretary must update regulations to establish specific, varying frequencies for automated Track Geometry Measurement System (TGMS) operations based on track classification, annual gross tonnage, and cant deficiency. For instance, Class 5 track and tracks with high cant deficiency would require TGMS operation at least four times per calendar year, and any deviation found by either visual or automated inspection must be immediately remediated by authorized personnel.
Get AI-generated questions to help you understand this bill better
Timeline
Introduced in Senate
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Introduced in Senate
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Secure Tracks Act
USA119th CongressS-3987| Senate
| Updated: 3/4/2026
The "Secure Tracks Act" aims to significantly enhance railroad track safety by amending title 49 of the U.S. Code to strengthen inspection requirements. It mandates that all main line track designated for operation at Class 3 speeds or higher must undergo visual inspection by a qualified inspector at least twice each week, with a minimum one-calendar-day interval between inspections. A crucial provision requires the immediate remediation of any defect or unsafe condition identified through any inspection method. Qualified inspectors are granted the sole authority to initiate remedial action and authorize subsequent movements for repairs when deviations from safety regulations are found. The legislation also prohibits the Secretary of Transportation from granting waivers, exemptions, or modifications to safety regulations if proposed alternative inspection methods fail to detect all unsafe defect conditions, thereby ensuring no compromise to existing safety standards. Within one year, the Secretary must update regulations to establish specific, varying frequencies for automated Track Geometry Measurement System (TGMS) operations based on track classification, annual gross tonnage, and cant deficiency. For instance, Class 5 track and tracks with high cant deficiency would require TGMS operation at least four times per calendar year, and any deviation found by either visual or automated inspection must be immediately remediated by authorized personnel.