Senator Vance Statement on NTSB Findings Regarding East Palestine Train Derailment

Introduction

On February 3, 2023, a Norfolk Southern train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, causing a major environmental disaster.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has been investigating the incident, and on February 23, 2023, released its preliminary report.

Vance's Statement

In a statement, Senator Vance said that he was "deeply concerned" by the NTSB's findings.

"The report makes clear that this was a preventable disaster," Vance said.

"Norfolk Southern must be held accountable for its negligence, and we must take steps to prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future."

NTSB Findings

The NTSB's preliminary report found that the derailment was caused by a combination of factors, including:

• A defective wheel bearing
• Inadequate track inspection and maintenance
• Excessive train speed

The report also found that Norfolk Southern had been aware of the defective wheel bearing for several weeks prior to the derailment, but had failed to take action to repair it.

Vance's Call to Action

Vance called on Norfolk Southern to take the following steps:

• Compensate the victims of the derailment
• Clean up the environmental damage caused by the derailment
• Improve its track inspection and maintenance procedures
• Invest in new safety technologies

Vance also called on the federal government to take action to improve rail safety, including:

• Increasing funding for rail safety inspections
• Requiring railroads to adopt new safety technologies
• Strengthening oversight of the railroad industry

Conclusion

The East Palestine train derailment was a preventable tragedy that has had a devastating impact on the community.

Senator Vance is right to call for accountability and action to prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future.