The major freight railroads are at odds over whether they should be allowed to discipline workers who report safety concerns through a government hotline. This disagreement has prevented them from fulfilling their promise to join the program, which was prompted by a fiery derailment in Ohio. Unions and workplace safety experts argue that the ability to discipline workers for reporting safety issues undermines the purpose of the hotline, as it deters employees from using it due to fear of retribution.
The railroads, however, express concern about potential abuse of the system and argue for the right to discipline workers in certain situations. The ongoing dispute highlights the long-standing issue of workers being fired for reporting safety violations within the railroad industry. Despite the resistance from major freight railroads, some smaller railroads and Amtrak have already joined the government reporting program. The matter is being addressed by a committee composed of labor groups, railroads, and safety regulators, aiming to find a solution.
The Federal Railroad Administration stresses the importance of the program in improving rail safety, and the Transportation Trades Department coalition urges the railroads to follow through on their commitment to join the hotline.