Exercise in futility

The Proposition 2 proponents’ attempt to fine oil trains rolling through Spokane is an exercise in futility. Fred Millar stated that “if it actually became enacted, would lead to a lawsuit very quickly from the railroads.” He’s right on the money. And they have a heck of a lot more of it than does the city of Spokane.

When the railroads were deregulated in 1980, the rules relating to maintaining the rolling stock were revised. Originally there was a 500-mile inspection requirement. Spokane was an inspection point. As a result of deregulation, there is virtually no inspection requirement. Furthermore, once a company is deregulated it’s virtually impossible to re-regulate, unless you have a Congress willing to go up against big business to protect the environment, which we don’t appear to have at present.

As former conductor, I have been in a number of derailments. I know how dangerous running oil trains through downtown Spokane could be. Personally, I agree with Ben Stuckart, that negotiating with the railroads might be a better and cheaper alternative. You vote for it, you own it.

Bob Blangeres, Wash. State UTU Assistant Legislative Director

Spokane