DOJ Sues Norfolk Southern for Ohio Train Derailment

The Department of Justice is suing Norfolk Southern over its February train derailment in Ohio, accusing the company of unlawfully polluting waterways with oil and hazardous substances. The DOJ is seeking injunctive relief, cost recovery, and civil penalties to ensure the company pays the full cost of the environmental cleanup. The derailment sent 38 cars off the track, spilling hazardous chemicals and requiring a controlled release of toxic vinyl chloride, which was burned off and forced the town's evacuation. Norfolk Southern has come under intense scrutiny from the industry and lawmakers, who have pressed for more stringent safety precautions.