State Actions For Employing Transportation Risk Assessments and Crossing Knowledge Strategies Act
Summary
The SAFE TRACKS Act amends Title 49 of the United States Code, focusing on highway-rail grade crossing safety. It mandates continued periodic reports on this safety issue. A key addition requires states to collaborate with stakeholders, including railroads, mental health, and law enforcement agencies, to reduce pedestrian fatalities, including suicides, along railroad rights-of-way.
Expected Effects
The act will likely lead to increased collaboration between state entities and stakeholders to address and mitigate risks associated with highway-rail grade crossings. The periodic reports will ensure ongoing monitoring and evaluation of safety measures. The focus on pedestrian fatalities, including suicides, will prompt states to develop targeted prevention strategies.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced safety at highway-rail grade crossings.
- Reduced pedestrian fatalities along railroad rights-of-way.
- Improved collaboration between state entities, railroads, and mental health agencies.
- Data-driven decision-making through periodic reports.
- Proactive measures to address suicide prevention in vulnerable areas.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increased administrative burden on states due to reporting requirements.
- Possible costs associated with implementing new safety measures and collaborative programs.
- Risk of ineffective collaboration if stakeholders are not fully engaged.
- Limited scope, focusing primarily on grade crossings and pedestrian fatalities, potentially overlooking other safety aspects.
- The act's success depends heavily on the willingness and resources of individual states.
Constitutional Alignment
The SAFE TRACKS Act appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, including railroads. The act promotes the general welfare by enhancing public safety, a goal mentioned in the Preamble. It does not infringe upon any specific individual rights or freedoms protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).