Washington State Considers New Oil Train Rules In Vancouver

Washington state officials are holding a public hearing Friday in Vancouver on new rules targeting oil train safety.

One proposed rule would require trains carrying refined or crude oil to submit spill response plans that the state would approve.

Another proposed rule would make oil terminals and refineries alert the state that they plan to receive crude oil. Right now, companies that move oil by rail aren’t required to share that information with state officials.

The Washington Department of Ecology would communicate with local officials and first responders to insure safety measures are in place.

The proposed rules could change depending on the public’s comments. The rules, once approved, are scheduled to go into effect in September.