Thank you to WTTW - Chicago PBS for interviewing Collins Law partner Shawn Collins for their article on local opposition to the Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern merger. Leaders and residents in the areas that will be affected are concerned that the railroad company merger will increase air and noise pollution, cause emergency service disruptions, and increase the risk of hazardous materials incidents in Chicago and the northwest suburbs.
Shawn voiced his concern about the STB relying on information from the rail companies to make their decision to approve the merger, especially in light of the recent train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, which highlighted serious safety issues within the railroad industry.
Here is an excerpt from the WTTW article:
Shawn Collins, an environmental attorney in the Chicago area, said safety and transparency are key to rail safety, and found fault with STB relying on information from the train companies.
"This decision is far too trusting of the railroads. You don't take the polluter's word for anything that is important," Collins said. "What the railroads say has to be considered, but you don't stop there. This is the worst time to be rushing a decision allowing more freight rail cars rumbling through Chicago and the suburbs."
Please read the full article titled "Merger of Large Train Companies Approved Despite Opposition from Northwest Suburbs" here.
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