Bill to renew PUC authority to close at‑grade crossings advances with rail industry backing

Senator Ochoa Bogue introduced SB 1008 as a noncontroversial measure to renew an exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act that allows the California Public Utilities Commission to close or alter at‑grade rail crossings by order, a policy the author said expired on Jan. 1, 2025.

Peggy Egbujai, senior director of public affairs for Union Pacific Railroad, testified in support and described the company’s collaboration with local jurisdictions and the PUC on closure projects. She said California has about 8,500 active at‑grade crossings and Union Pacific operates roughly 2,000 of them; she said eliminating redundant at‑grade crossings is federal policy and local collaboration is essential.

Support also came from the California Business Properties Association and BNSF. No lead opposition witnesses appeared in committee.

The committee moved SB 1008 to the Senate Committee on Energy, Utilities and Communications. Roll call recorded unanimous aye votes from members present and the motion was reported as 4 to 0.