The Nation : Negotiators Adopt Rail Worker Penalties

House-Senate negotiators reached agreement on legislation that would beef up the government’s ability to penalize railroad workers involved in accidents. The bill would for the first time give the Federal Railroad Administration the power to fine individual workers--including those in management--found to be to at blame for accidents. Under existing law, the government may penalize only railroad companies. The measure would increase the maximum civil fine that could be imposed from $2,500 to as much as $20,000 for grossly negligent violations. As under current law, workers could also be charged with crimes.