HB 465 Summary: Florida High-Speed Passenger Rail Safety Act

• Creates comprehensive state regulation of high-speed passenger rail systems (trains exceeding 80 mph) not federally preempted, with the Department of Transportation authorized to obtain information, keep records, and adopt rules for oversight.

• Requires railroad companies operating high-speed rail to install Federal Railroad Administration-approved safety equipment including positive train control systems, realigned crossing gates, and remote health monitoring technology at grade crossings to detect malfunctions.

• Mandates sealed corridors with four-quadrant gate systems at at-grade crossings where high-speed rail operates on tracks also transporting hazardous materials, regardless of operating speed.

• Requires railroad companies to construct and maintain fencing (minimum 4.5 feet high) on both sides of tracks in areas identified through field surveys, with ornamental fencing required in urban areas; companies are liable for damages from failure to construct or maintain fencing.

• Establishes reporting requirements for federal accident reports, annual liquefied natural gas transportation reports, and publicly accessible inspection results; provides emergency management training for affected communities and agencies.

• Takes effect July 1, 2020.