U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has announced new measures to enforce English language proficiency among cross-border train operators to enhance safety on U.S. railways. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) discovered during routine inspections that some crew members from Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (CPKC) and Union Pacific Railroad (UP) had difficulties interpreting safety documents and communicating in English.
Duffy emphasized the importance of English proficiency for operating heavy machinery safely, stating, "Whether you're operating an 80,000-pound big rig or a massive freight train, you need to be proficient in our national language – English." FRA Administrator David Fink echoed these concerns, highlighting the risks posed by non-English-speaking crew members during emergencies.
The FRA's findings have led to letters being sent to CPKC and UP, clarifying certification requirements for locomotive engineers and conductors under 49 CFR Parts 240 and 242. Crews from Mexico are restricted from operating more than 10 miles into the U.S., and uncertified crews must stop at customs inspection points unless accompanied by certified interpreters. Non-compliance could result in enforcement actions by the Trump Administration.
