New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy signed S. 3425 into law on Jan. 9, a bill requiring rail carriers to maintain vegetation near and around crossings in the state.
The bill passed through the New Jersey Senate last May by a unanimous 35-0 vote and later in December was approved unanimously by the state’s Assembly.
It requires vegetation to be cleared by at least 300 feet from crossings by rail carriers. If the carriers do not comply within 15 days of receiving written notice that a crossing must be cleared, then the state Department of Transportation will clear the vegetation and charge the carriers for the cost of doing so.
“Excessive vegetation has the potential to cause harm to commuters, railroad workers, and many others,” said SMART-TD New Jersey State Legislative Director Ronald Sabol. “Thank you to the governor for signing this important legislation that will improve safety across our statewide rail system.”
Sen. Patrick J. Diegnan, Jr. of New Jersey’s 18th District was the bill’s primary sponsor.
Related News
- Transit Funding Crisis Deepens
- Submit Your Local Pride T-Shirt Design Ideas by August 20!
- UPDATE: Hotel Reservation Deadline Extended for Anaheim Regional Training Seminar
- New SMART Union Mobile App Update Available
- Support SMART-TD Brother Who Lost His Leg in Denver Derailment
- Alaska Conductor Loses Second Child, Chairperson Asks for Our Support
- The Makings of a Railroad Merger
- East Palestine Documentary Emphasizes Fight for Rail Safety
- Statement from SMART-TD on the Proposed Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern Merger
- 1% Declares War On 2-PC & SMART-TD