AAR Takes Legal Action Against Ohio's Crew Size Legislation

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) has filed a lawsuit against Ohio in the U.S. District Court, seeking to block the state's two-person train crew mandate. AAR argues that the legislation is unconstitutional and contradicts the 1995 Interstate Commerce Commission Termination Act. The provision, included in a transportation budget bill signed into law by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, requires freight trains to have a crew of at least two individuals. AAR contends that the law disregards safety considerations and imposes unnecessary regulations on railroads. The lawsuit seeks a declaration that the crew size law is preempted by federal laws and an injunction to prevent its enforcement.