2025 Senate Resolution 46

Whereas, National Rail Day is celebrated in May to commemorate the completion of America’s first transcontinental railroad on May 11, 1869; and

Whereas, Michigan is fortunate to have 3,465 freight rail miles operated by 29 freight carriers and Amtrak passenger service; and

Whereas, Railroads are a safe way to move freight and are working to improve infrastructure and equipment safety, reduce human error, and protect the rail network every day; and

Whereas, Technologies like train inspection portals and cracked wheel detection have resulted in Class 1 mainline accident rate reductions of 42 percent since 2000; and

Whereas, The last decade was the safest, with the 2023 hazmat accident rate at its lowest ever; and

Whereas, The railroad industry partners with law enforcement, fire departments, 911 call centers, emergency management directors and others to promote a blue safety sign, also known as the Emergency Notification Sign (ENS), which is located at every rail crossing; and

Whereas, Railroads offer the safety tool, AskRail app, to Michigan’s fire and police leadership. The AskRail app provides first responders immediate access to accurate, timely data about what type of hazardous materials a railcar is carrying so they can make an informed decision about how to respond to a rail emergency; and

Whereas, Moving freight by rail prevents 6.97 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions, the equivalent of planting 105.6 million trees; and

Whereas, Railroads help preserve infrastructure and aid in cutting congestion; and

Whereas, Freight railroads take 4.7 million truckloads off Michigan roads annually; and

Whereas, From the auto industry and other manufacturers to mining and agriculture, Michigan’s productive freight rail network provides key connections to keep our state’s economy vibrant; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body recognize May 14, 2025, as Michigan Rail Day; and be it further

Resolved, That we recognize and celebrate the pivotal role that a robust freight railroad and passenger system is to the residents of the Great Lakes State.