FRA Rule Change Impacting Heritage Operations

Alexander D. Mitchell IV · **Posted:** Tue May 12, 2026 2:39 pm

The Federal Railroad Administration today announced finalization of 11 new rules it describes as deregulatory actions to improve rail operations, remove inefficiencies, and reduce costs without compromising safety. In a press release, FRA Administrator David Fink called mostly minor changes “commonsense regulations to deliver a stronger, safer rail system.”

The 11 rules, finalized on April 28 and taking effect May 28, include specifically to us:

https://www.regulations.gov/document/FRA-2025-0118-0004

Quote:

SUMMARY:
This rule excludes railroad freight cars used exclusively for tourist, historic, excursion, educational, recreational, or private purposes and that are not interchanged from the requirement that all restricted freight cars, including cars more than 50 years old, be stenciled with specific information.

The other ten changes are summarized at:

https://www.trains.com/pro/regulatory/f ... gulations/