Committee hears emotional testimony on bill to extend clear zone for parked railcars after Rosati fatality

Representative Peters opened a public hearing on House Bill 396, saying the bill responds to a 2022 fatality in her District 122 and asking lawmakers to increase the minimum clear distance for parked railroad rolling stock near crossings from 250 feet to 500 feet.

"Currently, the state statute allows for railroad cars that sit on tracks, to be 250 feet. This bill merely asks that we extend that portion to 500 feet," Representative Peters said, describing the measure as a “very simple bill.” She told the committee the proposal grew out of community requests following the death of Katie Rogers and that constituents from Rosati traveled to testify in support.

Several Rosati residents and family members testified in favor. One longtime resident who said he had studied the intersection told the committee, "I believe 500 feet is a minimum would be safe." Amanda Smith, who identified herself as the victim's mother, described the curve and sight-line limitations where her daughter was killed and…