Rail transit generally has been one of the safest forms of public transportation. However, several recent accidents are cause for concern. For ex., a July 2009 crash on the Washington Metro resulted in 9 deaths. The Federal Transit Admin. (FTA) requires states to designate an oversight agency to directly oversee the safety of rail transit systems. The Dept. of Transportation (DoT) is planning to propose legislation that, if passed, would result in a greater role for FTA in regulating and overseeing the safety of these systems. This statement: (1) summarizes the findings of a 2006 report; and (2) provides preliminary observations on key elements DoT has stated it will include in its legislative proposal for revamping rail transit safety oversight. Charts and tables.

GAO-06-997T Rail Transit: Observations on FTA's State Safety Oversight Program