I concur with the gentleman from Massachusetts.

I would like to thank the witnesses for their time today and their testimony.

Chairman Payne, BMWED thanks you and Chairman DeFazio for requesting that the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) examine the impacts that the implementation of PSR by Class I railroads is having on workers and safety.

I am submitting a brief update on my testimony at your February 5, 2020 hearing titled, 'Tracking Toward Zero: Improving Grade Crossing Safety and Addressing Community Concerns.'

The safety of the rail industry remains one of the most important issues facing this subcommittee.

Class I's primarily run two-man crews now, so, there would be no major increase in labor costs.

Has the NTSB considered making recommendations to the FRA or PHMSA regarding the positioning of cars carrying hazardous materials?

Staffing levels must be restored and the policies designed to ruthlessly cut corners that are driving good people from the industry must be ended.

In light of the Subcommittee's June 14 Hearing on 'Examining Rail Safety,' which examined the state of freight rail safety and issues pertinent to keeping rail operations, rail workers, and communities safe.

thank you for the opportunity to present my priorities for the Fiscal Year 2023 Defense Appropriations bill.

All of this is why the STB held the emergency hearing.

We have an opportunity to hear from members of the Board to determine what additional authorities are needed to improve rail service across the country.