Assistance for Local Heroes During Train Crises Act

This bill sets up a federal fund to quickly help local police, fire, and other responders after a hazardous train derailment, crash, or similar incident. After the Federal Railroad Administration declares an event (within 3 days), at least $250,000 is sent right away to affected local responders, with up to $3 million total available within days. The money can cover replacing damaged or contaminated gear, overtime pay, and other response costs. Responders must turn in documentation within 120 days; if money is misused, it must be paid back to the fund.

The fund is paid for by yearly fees on companies that ship or carry hazardous materials by rail, with total collections of at least $10 million. Railroads that move hazardous materials must also give local teams advance warning about what’s on the train and when it’s coming, plus real-time location information as trains enter and leave the community.

• Who is affected: Local emergency responders and communities near rail lines; railroads and companies shipping hazardous materials.
• What changes: Fast federal reimbursement for response costs; gear and overtime covered; stronger sharing of train details and live location.
• When: Event must be declared within 3 days; at least $250,000 paid immediately; more funds (up to $3 million) can follow within 5 days; documentation due within 120 days.