OH HR147

Urges Congress to establish a special committee to investigate the February 3, 2023 East Palestine, Ohio train derailment and the federal EPA's response to the disaster

The derailment involved a freight train carrying hazardous materials including vinyl chloride, benzene residue, and other toxic chemicals, prompting evacuations within a one-to-two mile radius

Emergency crews conducted controlled burns of five vinyl chloride tank cars to prevent explosions, releasing plumes of hazardous smoke into the air while toxic substances also contaminated soil and local waterways

Documents obtained through FOIA requests show FEMA officials voiced concerns that the chemical spill and controlled burn could cause "cancer clusters" in affected communities

Requests that members of Ohio's Congressional delegation be appointed to the proposed special committee