Congressman García Delivers Remarks on Impact of Republican Default on America Act on Rail Safety

WASHINGTON, DC – As Republicans drive the U.S. toward default to force their extremist agenda, the consequences of default and their policies would be devastating and inflict serious pain on everyday people like the residents of the 4th Congressional District. This week Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) delivered a floor speech highlighting one of the ways in which the Republican Default on America Act would impact his constituents and his district.

A captioned media video of the Congressman’s floor speech can be found here.

A raw video copy of the Congressman’s floor speech can be found here.

The Congressman’s remarks as delivered follow:

“I rise today because a couple of months ago, a freight train derailed in my district. Thankfully, the cars that derailed were not carrying any hazardous materials and no one was hurt. 

“And earlier this month, another passenger train derailed nearby as it left the station. 25% of the nation's trains pass through the Chicagoland area and many of the country's largest freight lines pass through my district.

“There are children in my district who hop over mile-long train runs that block their path to school. 

“So why am I talking about rail safety when we're supposed to be talking about the default? 

“Because in Illinois alone, the Republican Default On America Act would take away more than a year's worth of rail safety inspection days. 470 to be exact if they get their way.

“Republicans will make rail more dangerous in my district and across the country. And when accidents happen, communities like mine pay the price. 

“We continue to reject the Republican’s default plan. Madam Speaker, I yield back.”

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