Virginia 2-PC Law Could Become a Reality if We Act Now

Legislation that requires a minimum two-person crew (2-PC) on Virginia’s freight trains passed the House on January 28 and now heads to the Senate.

Approved by a vote of 65-31 and supported by lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, the bill now awaits its first hearing in the Senate Commerce & Labor Committee.

Act now to help ensure that it reaches the governor’s desk. Tell your state senator: support 2-PC requirements on Virginia’s freight trains ► 

Persistence Pays Off After 2024 Veto

If this feels like déjà vu, that’s because it is: the same bill passed in Virginia two years ago, but it never became law.

Unfortunately, former Governor Glenn Youngkin vetoed the previous version just weeks before the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) announced its federal 2-PC regulation.

Back in 2024, we called out Governor Youngkin for this irresponsible decision that went against public safety, common sense, and Virginia’s railroad workers, saying “Make no mistake: Gov. Youngkin and those who chose not to support the two-person crew bill in Virginia are acting AGAINST us!” Youngkin is no longer in office, providing a second chance to help Virginia do the right thing.

Virginia State Safety & Legislative Director Ronnie Hobbs refiled the 2-PC bill in December 2025 and has been pushing ever since. With Governor Abigail Spanberger now in office who supports 2-PC, Hobbs is hopeful. But getting the bill onto her desk can’t be taken for granted.  

“The Time to Act is Now”

As we gear up for the bill’s Senate journey, SLD Hobbs is calling on our Virginia brothers and sisters to act and make their voices heard.

“We know that Governor Spanberger is firmly ‘with us,’ but she doesn’t get to vote on the legislation,” Hobbs explained. “I encourage every member in Virginia to contact their state senator and explain our important this bill is, both for rail safety and our communities. The time to act is now.”