HR 853

This bill, the Assistance for Local Heroes During Train Crises Act, creates a fund to provide financial assistance to state and local emergency response groups, such as fire departments and law enforcement, following hazardous train incidents. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) can declare a ‘hazardous train event,’ triggering an immediate payout of at least $250,000 from the fund, with potential for up to $3 million per event. Railroads transporting hazardous materials will be required to provide advance warnings and real-time location information to local communities, and will also contribute fees to replenish the fund.