WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Bob Casey and John Fetterman have called out Norfolk Southern for its safety and labor practices. The senators penned a letter to the company following a December 2023 train derailment in Logan Township, near Altoona, PA. The incident, though not resulting in injury or hazardous spills, raised significant concerns about how the company communicates with local officials.
Concerns Over Safety Information
On December 20, a Norfolk Southern train derailed outside Altoona. Local leaders, including the Mayor and Fire Chief, reported insufficient information sharing from the company. This lack of transparency alarms residents who fear potential disasters akin to those in East Palestine, Ohio, and Darlington Township, PA.
Senators Casey and Fetterman urged Norfolk Southern to prioritize trust and safety in their operations. “Norfolk Southern may feel that less damaging derailments are not worth flagging for area leaders but developing and maintaining trust between railroads and local communities is critical,” they wrote.
Labor Practices Under Scrutiny
The senators also criticized the company’s labor practices, especially the implementation of “Precision Scheduled Railroading 2.0” (PSR 2.0). The original PSR led to over 300 layoffs at the Juniata Locomotive Shop in Altoona between 2019 and 2021. The senators are concerned that continued operational changes could further jeopardize worker safety and job security.
Casey and Fetterman stressed the importance of fair treatment for workers. “Skilled rail workers are not pawns in Norfolk Southern’s perpetual quest to maximize profits – they are people with families who deserve fairness and stability,” the letter stated.
Economic and Community Impact
Norfolk Southern plays a pivotal role in Altoona’s economy, providing jobs and facilitating commerce. However, the company’s practices have raised doubts about its commitment to the community. The senators demanded answers on how Norfolk Southern plans to notify local officials about future incidents and how it will ensure work safety and proper staffing.
The senators asked, “How does Norfolk Southern determine when or if to notify area officials about a derailment?” and “Will you ensure that repair and mechanical work at the Juniata Locomotive Shop is given to the proper workers with training in that specific craft?”
Implications for the Rail Industry
This letter comes amid a broader conversation about rail safety and labor practices in the U.S. The concerns highlighted by the senators reflect ongoing debates about balancing efficiency and safety in the rail industry. The response from Norfolk Southern could set a precedent for how rail companies interact with local communities and handle labor issues.
Rebuilding Trust: Norfolk Southern’s Path to Setting Industry Standards
Casey and Fetterman’s letter is a call to action for Norfolk Southern to reassess its priorities. Ensuring safety and fair labor practices can help rebuild trust with local communities and maintain the company’s crucial role in the economy.
The outcome of this dialogue will be closely watched by other communities and industries facing similar challenges. As the rail industry evolves, the balance between operational efficiency and community safety remains a critical issue.
By addressing these concerns head-on, Norfolk Southern has an opportunity to lead by example and set new standards for the entire rail industry.
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