HB2879 Summary

• Creates a new Oklahoma Railways Commission as an independent state agency to replace the Rails Program Division of the Department of Transportation, effective January 1, 2015

• Establishes a seven-member commission appointed by the Governor with staggered terms; members must be Oklahoma residents with three years of experience in railway activities

• Grants the commission regulatory authority over public highway/railroad crossings, warning devices, signage standards, and railroad safety standards for employees

• Transfers the Rails Program Division's assets, personnel, records, and funds to the new commission, with affected employees able to retain their leave, benefits, and accrued retirement

• Creates the Oklahoma Railways Commission Revolving Fund to support rail development projects, including installation of safety warning devices at railroad crossings