SRC-JBJ S.B. 1098 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 1098 76R6580 WP-DBy: Cain State Affairs 4/19/1999 As Filed DIGEST Currently, statutes relating to the operation and regulation of a train in the state require a full crew. A full crew consists of a specific number of persons per train. The types of trains may be freight, gravel, or construction trains and light engines. This bill would change certain crew requirements for the trains and would require a qualified engineer to operate a control locomotive at any time the locomotive is in motion. This bill also authorizes a qualified railroad trainman to dismount the train to perform necessary job duties, and establishes the qualifications for that engineer and railroad trainman. PURPOSE As proposed, S.B. 1098 amends crew requirements for certain railroad trains. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Article 6380, V.T.C.S., to provide that a qualified person is an engineer or railroad trainman if the person has successfully completed a railroad carrier's training program applicable to the appropriate position and passed an examination on railroad operating rules. Prohibits a mixed train and work train from operating outside its yard. Includes a qualified railroad trainman and engineer as a member in a full crew of a construction train that is prohibited from operating outside the yard without the full crew. Requires the control locomotive to be operated by a qualified engineer at any time the locomotive is in motion. Authorizes the qualified railroad trainman to dismount the train to perform necessary job duties, including rail switching activities. Provides that this article applies to all trains operated in the state to the extent that it does not conflict with federal law. Makes conforming and nonsubstantive changes. SECTION 2.Effective date: September 1, 1999. SECTION 3.Emergency clause.