Ohio files federal lawsuit against Norfolk Southern over train derailment and health issues

Ohio has filed a federal lawsuit against Norfolk Southern over a train derailment that spilled toxic chemicals in East Palestine, Attorney General Dave Yost said at a news conference on Tuesday.

According to the 58-count lawsuit, Norfolk Southern violated several state, federal and Ohio laws, as well as the State Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERLA), resulting in water pollution, air pollution and hazardous waste.

“This derailment could have been completely avoided,” Yost said. “I’m concerned that Norfolk Southern may prioritize their company’s profits over the health and safety of the cities and communities in which they operate.”

The Feb. 3 Norfolk Southern freight train derailment “released more than 1 million gallons of hazardous chemicals and endangered Ohio’s health and natural resources,” Yost said, adding that the chemicals could pose a potential long-term hazard. immediate adverse health effects.

Yost is seeking at least $75,000 in damages to the state, including damage to natural resources, emergency response, and economic damage to residents. However, the Attorney General added that “the damage will far exceed this minimum as the situation in East Palestine continues to evolve.”

According to the complaint, the derailment is just one of several incidents and derailments involving Norfolk Southern. The railroad company’s accident rate has increased by 80% over the past 10 years, and there have been at least 20 chemical-related derailments, Yost said.

Earlier this week, Norfolk Southern executives met with Yost to discuss setting up relief programs in the area.

“We look forward to working on a final decision with Attorney General Yost and others as we coordinate with his office, community leaders and other stakeholders to finalize the details of these programs,” the company said.

“I am determined to do it right. Norfolk Southern will clean up the facility safely, thoroughly and promptly. You have my personal obligation. Norfolk Southern will get the job done and help East Palestine prosper,” Norfolk Southern CEO Alan Shaw said at a U.S. Senate hearing last week.

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