E71AF85112459836872583920070F7D6 Hearing Summary

Representative Sullivan and Representative Esgar introduced House Bill 19-1034 concerning a requirement that a common carrier engaged in the transportation of property by railroad have at least two crew members aboard a freight train while the freight train is moving.  A violation of the two-member crew requirement is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of $250 to $1,000 for a first offense, $1,000 to $5,000 for a second offense committed within 3 years, or $5,000 to $10,000 for a third or subsequent offense committed within 3 years.

The bill sponsors answered questions from the committee. 

Sara Cassidy, representing the Union Pacific Railroad, testified in opposition to the bill.

Sam Macedonio, representing the BNSF Railway, testified in opposition to the bill.

Steve Gregory, representing the San Luis and Rio Grande Railroad, testified in opposition to the bill.

The witnesses answered questions from the committee. 

Cathy Norris, representing the BNSF Railway, testified in opposition to the bill.

Nicholas Colglazier, representing the Colorado Competitive Council, testified in opposition to the bill.  The bill may limit innovation and business.

Carl Smith, respresenting SMART, the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation workers, testified in favor of the bill.

Robert Forrest, representing SMART the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers, testified in favor of the bill.

John Sullivan, representing himself, testified in favor of the bill.

There were questions for the witnesses about accidents and safety, as well as the challenges of rural areas versus large cities. 

Paul Pearson, representing the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, testified in support of the bill.

Steve Clapham, representing Colorado Professional Fire Fighters, testified in support of the bill.

Miles Meese, representing the Teamsters Union, testified in support of the bill.

Sophia Mayett-Guerreo, representing Conservation Colorado, testified in support of the bill.

The committee recessed.

The committee came back to order.

Those in attendance were thanked. 

The sponsors made closing remarks.  A resolution from the Board of County Commissioners in Pueblo County (Attachment B) in support of the bill was provided to committee members.