Last
Thursday, I visited East Palestine where a Norfolk Southern train
carrying hazardous materials derailed leading to a large explosion and
fire. I went to listen to the people that this disaster has hurt the
most: the residents of East Palestine and the surrounding communities.
I
spoke with residents who are finally able to return home after testing.
Others still can’t return home and told me about the high hotel bills
they’re facing. Throughout Ohio, people are worried about the air they
breathe and the water they drink. No one should have to worry about
that.
Since the day of the derailment, my office and I have been
exploring every option to help these Ohioans. It’s why I sent letters to
the Environmental Protection Agency, National Transportation Safety
Board, and Centers for Disease Control calling for action in East
Palestine and it’s why I am going to work with the Department of
Transportation and in Congress to make these trains safer and improve
working conditions.
Norfolk Southern and all other railroad
companies spent billions on stock buybacks while reducing their
workforce, cutting back on the workers that inspect railcars and do
repairs.
Going forward we need new rules for shipping hazardous
materials that prevent future derailments involving these potentially
dangerous trains and we can’t let lobbyists stand in the way.
No
family should face the horror of fleeing their homes because hazardous
materials have spilled or caught fire in their community.
For the
people of East Palestine, we are going to get answers and
accountability. I’ve always said that Ohioan’s know what they need best
and I’m here to make sure that the people of East Palestine get the
resources that they need.
If you are a resident in the East
Palestine area and would like to request air or water testing at your
home, call the residential re-entry request hotline at 330-849-3919. For
more information, visit my website at
https://www.brown.senate.gov/help-for-residents-in-the-east-palestine-area.