A bill to require automatic train control capabilities on the main line of the Northeast Corridor, and for other purposes.
Amends the Federal Railroad Safety Act of 1970 to direct the Secretary of Transportation to promulgate regulations requiring that: (1) all passenger and freight trains operating after December 15, 1989, on the main line of the Northeast Corridor between Washington, D.C., and Boston, Massachusetts, be equipped with automatic stopping systems; and (2) all locomotives in operation be equipped with an operable radio capable of train-to-train and train-to-fixed station communication.
Increases from $2,500 to $25,000 the maximum civil penalty for violations of Federal railroad safety rules.
Directs the Secretary to: (1) undertake a feasibility study regarding automatic train control systems on each rail corridor on which passengers are carried; and (2) report study results to the Congress within one year after the date of enactment of this Act.
Referred to Subcommittee on Transportation, Tourism, and Hazardous Materials.