S.1779 - Lifting Overburdensome Commerce Obstructions and Motives Act; LOCOMOTIVES Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1779, the LOCOMOTIVES Act, aims to amend the Clean Air Act by restricting states from setting their own emission standards for existing locomotives and engines used in locomotives. The bill seeks to establish federal control over locomotive emission standards, preventing states from imposing stricter regulations. It was introduced in the Senate on May 15, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.
The primary goal is to prevent a patchwork of state regulations that could burden interstate commerce. The bill argues that a uniform federal standard is more efficient and less disruptive for the railroad industry.
The Act specifically targets Section 209(e)(1) of the Clean Air Act, modifying provisions related to nonroad engines and vehicles, including locomotives.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the LOCOMOTIVES Act would centralize the regulation of locomotive emissions at the federal level, preempting state-level regulations. This could lead to a more streamlined regulatory environment for the railroad industry, potentially reducing compliance costs.
However, it might also result in less stringent emission controls in states that currently have stricter standards. This could impact air quality and public health in those states.
The Act could also face legal challenges based on states' rights to protect their environment and public health.
Potential Benefits
- Streamlined regulatory environment for the railroad industry, reducing compliance costs.
- Uniform emission standards across states, simplifying operations for interstate rail transport.
- Potential for increased efficiency in the rail industry due to reduced regulatory complexity.
- Could prevent conflicting state regulations that hinder interstate commerce.
- May encourage innovation in emission control technologies at the federal level.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for reduced air quality in states with existing stricter emission standards.
- Limits states' ability to address specific local environmental concerns related to locomotive emissions.
- May face opposition from environmental groups and states advocating for stronger emission controls.
- Could lead to increased emissions in certain areas if federal standards are less stringent than previous state standards.
- Possible legal challenges based on states' rights and environmental protection.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is complex. Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce under Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 (the Commerce Clause). This power is often used to justify federal regulation of industries that operate across state lines, such as railroads.
However, the Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, including the power to protect public health and the environment. State emission standards could be seen as an exercise of this reserved power.
The constitutional question is whether the federal interest in uniform regulation of interstate commerce outweighs the states' interest in protecting their environment and public health. This balance is often a subject of legal debate.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).