Rail safety measures face opposition and criticism from conservative groups and officials.

A coalition of conservative groups is opposing a bipartisan rail safety bill introduced by lawmakers after a freight train carrying hazardous chemicals derailed in Ohio in February. The Railway Safety Act of 2023 aims to set new safety requirements and procedures for trains carrying hazardous materials, strengthen inspection standards, and increase fines for safety violations. The conservative groups argue that the bill would create inefficiencies for businesses and give the Transportation Department too much authority. However, several advocacy groups and President Biden have expressed support for the bill.