Opportunity
Federal Register #2026-15605
FRA Proposed Rulemaking: English Language Proficiency and Certification for Locomotive Engineers and Conductors
Buyer
Federal Railroad Administration
Posted
July 31, 2026
Respond By
September 30, 2026
Identifier
2026-15605
NAICS
926120
This opportunity involves a proposed regulatory action by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, focused on the certification and qualification of locomotive engineers and conductors. - Government Buyer: - Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), U.S. Department of Transportation - Scope of Action: - Amends regulations for qualification and certification of locomotive engineers and conductors - Establishes English language proficiency (ELP) as a mandatory qualification - Requires all written and oral communications, training, and testing to be conducted in English - Clarifies operational procedures, including territorial qualifications and energy management system monitoring - Notable Requirements: - Imposes a 10 route-mile geographic limitation for Mexican crew members operating in the U.S. - Requires U.S. railroad carriers to ensure compliance for joint operations with Mexican railroad carriers - Standardizes certification processes, operational readiness, and recordkeeping - No OEMs, vendors, products, or part numbers are referenced, as this is a regulatory proposal, not a procurement of goods or services.
Description
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) proposes to amend regulations governing the qualification and certification of locomotive engineers and conductors to establish English language proficiency as a requirement. The proposed rule aims to enhance safety by ensuring that all certified personnel possess sufficient English reading, speaking, and writing skills to perform their duties safely. It also clarifies operational procedures and codifies limitations on operations at the southern border, including a 10 route-mile geographic limitation for Mexican crew members. Additionally, the proposal addresses territorial qualifications and operational monitoring requirements related to energy management systems.