OH HB190

Amends Ohio traffic law to require vehicle operators approaching railroad grade crossings to stop between 15-50 feet from the nearest rail and watch, listen, and stop for approaching trains or on-track equipment.

Expands existing requirements to specifically include "on-track equipment" in addition to trains at railroad crossings in sections governing general vehicles, buses, school vehicles, and placarded hazmat vehicles.

Requires operators of buses, school vehicles, and hazmat-placarded vehicles to listen through an open door or window and look both directions before crossing, and prohibits gear shifting while traversing the crossing.

Establishes violations as misdemeanor offenses ranging from minor misdemeanor to fourth-degree misdemeanor, with enhanced penalties for repeat offenders within one year.

Allows the Public Utilities Commission to approve "exempt crossings" where the stop requirement does not apply if safety conditions permit, subject to public hearing and commission oversight.