Two derailments in two days in Wisconsin has Rep. Ron Kind urging action to improve safety

WATERTOWN/ALMA -- U.S. Rep. Ron Kind has written a letter to House of Representatives leadership urging them to immediately bring his rail safety legislation to the House floor for a vote.

This comes after two separate train derailments in Wisconsin over the weekend and one in Des Moines Monday morning, November 9th.

“The derailments this weekend in Alma and Watertown showed once again the negative impact increased rail traffic is having on our communities and environment. Fortunately, no injuries were reported at either derailment, but dozens of people were forced to temporarily evacuate their homes and nearly 20,000 gallons of ethanol spilled into the Mississippi River,” Rep. Kind stated. “The increase in rail traffic shows no signs of stopping, which is why we must take immediate action to prevent future derailments. I am calling on House leadership to hold a vote on my legislation which will provide for stronger rail safety standards and will increase oversight.”

The Crude-by-Rail Safety Act prohibits the use of unsafe DOT-111 tank cars, such as the ones involved in the Alma derailment.

CLICK HERE to learn more about the Crude-by-Rail Safety Act.