Memphis Standard

WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous Materials, today raised the issues of recent derailments, understaffing and the need for additional paid sick leave at a hearing entitled “Getting Back on Track: Exploring Supply Chain Resilience and Challenges.” In his questions, Congressman Cohen focused on sick leave agreements and the need to recruit, train and retain railroad workers.

In his remarks, he said in part:

“I support the important work that must be done to repair and support supply chains, but this work cannot come at the expense of the health and safety of rail workers and vulnerable communities across the country. I voted for giving rail workers paid sick leave in December and I’m proud to again support seven days of paid leave in the Freight Rail Workforce Health and Safety Act.”

See his remarks and exchange with witnesses here.

Witnesses at today’s hearing were:

• Chuck Baker, President and CEO, American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA);
• Chris Jahn, President and CEO, American Chemistry Council (ACC);
• Ian Jefferies, President and CEO, Association of American Railroads (AAR);
• Greg Regan, President, Transportation Trades Department (TTD), AFL-CIO; and
• Marc Scribner, Senior Transportation Policy Analyst, Reason Foundation

Original source can be found here.