MD SB855

Freight trains and light engines must have a crew of at least two individuals, with civil penalties up to $10,000 for first violations and $25,000 for repeat violations within 3 years

Railroad companies cannot block grade crossings with standing trains for more than 5 minutes (penalty up to $5,000) or operate freight/work trains exceeding 8,500 feet on main tracks or branch lines (penalty up to $10,000)

Railroad companies with Class IV or higher tracks must install wayside detector systems to scan trains for equipment defects including hot wheels, dragging equipment, shifted loads, and wheel bearing issues

Commissioner of Labor and Industry must establish a confidential reporting system for hazardous materials transportation by rail, with information shared only with Maryland Department of Emergency Management and FEMA

Railroad union representatives must be granted reasonable access to railroad property to investigate safety hazards and regulatory violations, including the ability to take photographs without being charged with trespassing