The Justice Division (DOJ) on Tuesday unveiled a brand new settlement between the Trump administration and Norfolk Southern after the railway firm allegedly prioritized its freight trains over Amtrak routes.
The settlement goals “to resolve allegations that Norfolk Southern delayed Amtrak passenger trains on Amtrak’s Crescent Route in violation of federal regulation by failing to present Amtrak trains desire over freight trains,” DOJ officers wrote in a press launch.
“As part of the settlement, Norfolk Southern agreed to provide all Amtrak trains the highest priority; train its employees to give priority to Amtrak trains; require supervisor approval for any dispatching decision that does not give priority to Amtrak trains in non-emergency situations; and provide records regarding delays suffered by Amtrak trains traveling on the Crescent Route controlled by Norfolk Southern,” the administration added.
The most recent settlement comes over a 12 months after the Environmental Safety Company (EPA), below former President Biden, introduced a settlement with the corporate within the wake of the 2023 derailment in East Palestine, Ohio.
The settlement was estimated to be value $310 million following a serious chemical leak that resulted from the accident. The 2024 settlement included an estimated $235 million for cleanup work in addition to a $15 million penalty over alleged violations of the Clear Water Act.
“Americans traveling by train are entitled to trips free from delays caused by railroads failing to give Amtrak preference over freight trains,” Assistant Legal professional Normal Brett Shumate mentioned in Tuesday’s launch.
“The settlement reached today, as well as Norfolk Southern’s improved performance on Amtrak’s Crescent Route, demonstrates the Department of Justice’s commitment to protecting everyday American train passengers,” he added.
When reached for remark, Norfolk Southern mentioned the settlement “reflects our longstanding efforts to provide preference to Amtrak as required under the law and establishes a process for future engagement that includes regular reviews of dispatcher training and steps to evaluate and address delays to Amtrak trains.”
“We’re grateful for the collaboration to reach an amicable resolution,” the railway added.
