II 109th CONGRESS 1st Session S. 197 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES January 26, 2005 Mrs. Boxer introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation A BILL To improve safety and reduce traffic congestion at grade crossings.

1.

Short title

This Act may be cited as the Rail Crossing Safety Act.

2.

Report regarding impact on public safety of train travel in communities without grade separation

(a)

Study

The Secretary of Transporation shall, in consultation with State and local government officials, conduct a study of the impact of blocked highway-railroad grade crossings on the ability of emergency responders to perform public safety and security duties. (b)

Report on the impact of blocked highway-Railroad grade crossings on emergency responders

Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit the results of the study and recommendations for reducing the impact of blocked crossings on emergency response to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

3.

Grade crossing separation fund

(a)

In general

The Secretary of Transporation shall award grants to States and units of local government to construct tunnels, bridges and other means of separating rail tracks and roads. (b)

Priority

(1)

In general

In awarding grants under this section, the Secretary shall give priority to— (A)grade separations that would have the most impact on improving safety; and (B)rail lines that have a high volume of goods movement. (2)

Priority adjustment

After completion of the report required under section 2, the Secretary shall take the report's findings and recommendations into account when determining priorities. (c)

Regulations

In order to carry out this section, the Secretary may establish any appropriate policies, procedures, or requirements. (d)

Authorization of appropriations

To carry out this section, there are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 2006 through 2010.