Freight rail cars subject to stricter production controls under federal new rule

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has issued a final rule to improve safety within the U.S. freight rail industry. This new regulation imposes stricter standards for newly constructed freight cars entering service in the United States. It also enforces stringent restrictions on the use of sensitive technologies and components sourced from countries of concern or state-owned enterprises, safeguarding the rail network against potential exploitation or compromise. 

The new regulation requires freight cars to adhere to rigorous manufacturing standards. They must be produced, assembled and altered at qualified facilities by approved manufacturers, with strict restrictions on components sourced from countries of concern or state-owned enterprises. Sensitive technology and its critical components cannot originate from such sources.  

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Manufacturers must certify compliance with these requirements before their freight cars are allowed on the U.S. general railroad system, then maintain detailed records supporting their certifications, making these available for FRA inspection upon request. Noncompliance may result in civil penalties, including barring manufacturers from supplying freight cars. 

“The safety and security of our nation’s freight rail system are of the highest importance,” FRA Administrator Amit Bose said. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) provides safety and security standards aimed at preventing the exploitation of freight cars for illicit purposes and the potential compromise of sensitive technologies within the industry. By enforcing stringent controls on where freight car technology and materials originate, this rule aims to minimize risks related to compromised security, ensuring that U.S. rail remains safe and reliable.” 

The final rule modifies the Freight Car Safety Standards outlined in 49 CFR Part 215, fulfilling a rail safety mandate from the BIL to enhance the nation’s rail equipment infrastructure while protecting it from potential vulnerabilities. 

Photo courtesy Universalashic, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons