North Columbus News

Senator JD Vance (R-OH) is calling for the passage of the Railway Safety Act, 250 days after the tragic train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. In a video released by Senator Vance, he emphasized the need for Congress to take action to prevent similar accidents in the future. He stated, "Enough is enough – it’s time for the Senate to pass the Railway Safety Act."

Senator Vance is not only advocating for rail safety legislation but is also urging the Biden administration to take immediate measures to address the consequences of the derailment in East Palestine. He is calling for a Federal Disaster Declaration to be issued, acknowledging the severity of the situation in the affected area.

Furthermore, Senator Vance is highlighting the concerns of East Palestine residents regarding indoor air quality. He believes that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has disregarded these concerns and is demanding that indoor air quality testing be conducted to ensure the safety of the community.

Another area of concern is public health monitoring. According to Senator Vance, the Biden administration has failed to implement baseline medical testing for the community, leaving significant questions unanswered regarding potential long-term health effects. He is urging the mobilization of resources to ensure proper monitoring of long-term health risks.

Additionally, Senator Vance is emphasizing the need for creek cleanup in East Palestine. Despite the passage of 250 days since the derailment, petroleum-based contaminants are still visible in the creek waters. He argues that the EPA's slow pace in addressing this issue poses a threat to the health and safety of the residents, and swift action is necessary.

The future health support for East Palestine residents and first responders is also a concern for Senator Vance. He highlights that almost half of the surveyed first responders reported new or worsening health symptoms, and the Biden administration has not taken concrete steps to address their healthcare liabilities.

The Railway Safety Act has already passed the Senate Commerce Committee and is awaiting a vote on the Senate floor. Senator Vance's efforts are supported by President Donald J. Trump, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, and other senators including Marco Rubio, Josh Hawley, Mike Braun, Roger Marshall, Mitt Romney, and Eric Schmitt. The legislation has also received endorsements from conservative organizations such as the Center for Renewing America, American Compass, and the American Principles Project.

Senator Vance's renewed push for the Railway Safety Act aims to prevent future train derailments and ensure the well-being of the East Palestine community.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.vance.senate.gov/press-releases/senator-vance-renews-push-for-railway-safety-act-250-days-after-east-palestine-train-derailment