Federal Judge Rules Norfolk Southern Solely Responsible for Ohio Train Derailment Cleanup

A federal judge has dismissed Norfolk Southern's claim that other companies should share the cleanup costs, emphasizing the railroad's sole responsibility.

A federal judge ruled that Norfolk Southern alone must bear the cost of cleaning up after the 2023 train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio.
The decision rejects Norfolk Southern's argument that companies such as Oxy Vinyls and GATX should help cover the cleanup expenses.
The cleanup from the derailment, which released hazardous chemicals including vinyl chloride, has already cost Norfolk Southern over $1.1 billion.
Officials expect the cleanup to be completed later this year, while residents continue to express concerns over potential health impacts.
The ruling supports the EPA and state of Ohio's lawsuit against Norfolk Southern, focusing on the railroad's responsibility for safe transportation.