Policy Action in East Palestine & Beyond

The ongoing train derailment crisis in East Palestine, Ohio is a product of policy failure. The derailment was 100% preventable, according to a preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board, and state officials have revealed the train’s petrochemical cargo was not classified as “highly hazardous,” failing to trigger any requirement to notify residents of its passage. In recent years, Norfolk Southern has fought against safety measures and prioritized profit margins over fair labor practices. Nearly a month after the derailment, residents of East Palestine are still concerned about the quality of air and water sampling that was initially conducted by Norfolk Southern contractors. Justice for the residents of East Palestine and peace of mind for railside communities and those at the front lines of petrochemical development starts with policy action. Leadership at the local, state, and federal levels can address the policy failures outlined above to ensure the safety of residents in East Palestine and beyond. Join the Ohio River Valley Institute and partners as we discuss the ongoing crisis in East Palestine and how elected leaders can take action and make policy to keep our communities safe from petrochemical harm.