Policy committee hearing in Darlington, PA: Train derailment

This week, I attended the bipartisan policy committee hearing in Darlington, PA, which is just across the state border from East Palestine, Ohio, where the Norfolk Southern train derailed in February. We heard testimony on the state and local response to the derailment and what we can do to ensure greater rail safety. We heard consistent answers that long-term monitoring and investments will be needed to determine the negative long-term effects on public safety from the tragedy. We also heard that most emergency management systems across the country have outdated laws, are underfunded, understaffed and in some areas are non-existent until a disaster happens. I will be working with my Democratic and Republican colleagues to make sure our systems can respond quickly and that the people of Darlington and its surrounding areas are supported in the years ahead.