Rule2026-17792
Permitting Use of Computer-Based, Three-Dimensional Simulation for Periodic Refresher Training on Brake Systems
Primary source
Metadata and text below are from the Federal Register, a public-domain U.S. government work. Always verify the official published version before relying on it for any legal matter.
Published
August 31, 2026
Effective
September 30, 2026
Issuing agencies
Transportation DepartmentFederal Railroad Administration
Abstract
This rule permits railroads to use a simulation that is instructor-led, computer-based, and three-dimensional (3D) to satisfy the hands-on portion of periodic refresher training under FRA's brake system training requirements, consistent with waivers FRA has granted to date. This computer-based 3D simulation training can provide employees with randomized scenarios that may not be readily available for hands-on training and facilitate real-time feedback on performance of duties.
Full Text
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<title>Federal Register, Volume 91 Issue 167 (Monday, August 31, 2026)</title>
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[Federal Register Volume 91, Number 167 (Monday, August 31, 2026)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 55784-55788]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2026-17792]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Railroad Administration
49 CFR Part 232
[Docket No. FRA-2025-0127]
RIN 2130-AD51
Permitting Use of Computer-Based, Three-Dimensional Simulation
for Periodic Refresher Training on Brake Systems
AGENCY: Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: This rule permits railroads to use a simulation that is
instructor-led, computer-based, and three-dimensional (3D) to satisfy
the hands-on portion of periodic refresher training under FRA's brake
system training requirements, consistent with waivers FRA has granted
to date. This computer-based 3D simulation training can provide
employees with randomized scenarios that may not be readily available
for hands-on training and facilitate real-time feedback on performance
of duties.
DATES: This rule is effective September 30, 2026.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Check Kam, Mechanical Engineer, Office
of Railroad Safety, FRA, telephone: (202) 366-2139, email:
[[Page 55785]]
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#e9aa818c8a82c7a28884a98d869dc78e869f"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="65260d00060e4b2e040825010a114b020a13">[email protected]</span></a>; or Elizabeth Gross, Attorney Adviser, FRA, email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#f7b29b9e8d969592839fd9b085988484b7939883d9909881"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="5510393c2f343730213d7b12273a262615313a217b323a23">[email protected]</span></a>.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. Background
Consistent with Executive Order (E.O.) 14192, Unleashing Prosperity
Through Deregulation (90 FR 9065, Feb. 6, 2025), and E.O. 14219,
Ensuring Lawful Governance and Implementing the President's
``Department of Government Efficiency'' Deregulatory Initiative (90 FR
10583, Feb. 25, 2025), FRA is reviewing its regulatory requirements in
49 CFR parts 200 through 299 and updating requirements to reduce
unnecessary burdens without compromising transportation safety.
Under 49 CFR part 232, FRA prescribes Federal safety standards for
freight and other non-passenger train brake systems and equipment. On
July 1, 2025, FRA published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that
proposed to allow railroads to use ``three-dimensional virtual
simulation'' to satisfy the hands-on portion of periodic refresher
training under FRA's brake system training requirements, consistent
with waivers FRA has granted to date. See 90 FR 28667 (July 1, 2025).
During the comment period that closed on September 2, 2025, FRA
received comments from the following six entities: the Association of
American Railroads (AAR) and the American Short Line and Regional
Railroad Association (ASLRRA) (jointly filed); \1\ the Brotherhood of
Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, a Division of the Rail Conference of
the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (BLET); \2\ the Brotherhood
of Railway Carmen Division (BRC) of the Transportation Communications
Union; \3\ the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and
Transportation Workers--Transportation Division (SMART-TD); \4\ and the
Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO (TTD).\5\ For information on
those comments, and FRA's response, please review the Section-by-
Section Analysis below.
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\1\ <a href="https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0006">https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0006</a>.
\2\ <a href="https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0003">https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0003</a>.
\3\ <a href="https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0004">https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0004</a>.
\4\ <a href="https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0002">https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0002</a>.
\5\ <a href="https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0005">https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0005</a>.
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II. Section-by-Section Analysis
Section 232.203 Training Requirements
FRA is amending paragraph (b)(8) of this section to permit
railroads to use instructor-led, computer-based 3D simulation \6\ to
meet the hands-on portion of the periodic refresher training
requirement. Such a simulation alone would not be considered sufficient
for initial training required by the remainder of this section, which
generally requires railroads to adopt and comply with a training,
qualification, and designation program for employees who perform brake
system inspections, tests, or maintenance. Currently, paragraph (b)(8)
of this section specifies, in part, that a railroad's program must
require periodic refresher training that includes classroom and hands-
on training. Paragraph (b)(8) further provides that observation and
evaluation of actual performance of duties may be used to meet the
hands-on training requirement.
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\6\ FRA is transitioning from the use of ``3D virtual
simulation'' to ``computer-based 3D simulation'' in this final rule.
``Virtual'' may be perceived to mean only the higher fidelity
immersive virtual reality simulations that require use of head
mounted displays and hand controllers, and may exclude the lower
fidelity 3D simulations traditionally administered via desktop,
laptop, or tablet form. Whereas ``computer-based'' would be generic
enough to include of all 3D simulation types.
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In the NPRM, FRA proposed amending paragraph (b)(8) specifically to
include ``three-dimensional virtual simulation'' as another way to meet
the hands-on refresher training requirement, in addition to observation
and evaluation of actual performance of duties.
Generally, BLET, BRC, SMART-TD, and TTD oppose the rule as
proposed, with many of them asserting that computer-based training
cannot replace real-world, hands-on training and does not support
environmental exposure to unpredictable elements, such as weather or
physical and sensory inputs.
BLET asserts that even if the proposal promotes consistent
training, it does not assure an equivalent level of quality or
educational benefit. BLET also expresses a concern that computer-based
training may be rushed, either with completion deadlines or under the
threat of discipline, which could lead to a lack of understanding and
retention. BLET notes that one Class I railroad did not continually
provide feedback during the computer-based refresher training, but only
a final score was generated at the end of the training. When discussing
its members' previous experience with computer-based refresher
training, BLET underscores the importance of an instructor's
involvement throughout the training to ensure, for example, interaction
with the instructor and transfer of expertise.
In the final rule, FRA adopts its proposal from the NPRM but
clarifies that an instructor qualified under 49 CFR part 232 must lead
any three-dimensional simulation under paragraph (b)(8). This approach
is generally consistent with waivers FRA has previously granted to
several Class I railroads,\7\ and FRA alluded in the NPRM to the fact
that an instructor would lead the three-dimensional simulation
training. For example, in the NPRM, FRA indicated that one of the
benefits of three-dimensional simulation training is it facilitates
real-time feedback on an employee's performance of duties. 90 FR 28667-
68 (July 1, 2025). FRA agrees with BLET's position that an instructor's
active involvement is essential to any computer-based training. In
addition, in this final rule, FRA is adding the phrase ``computer-
based'' to reflect better the current simulated training being used in
accordance with the referenced waivers.
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\7\ See Docket Nos. FRA-2011-0074 (BNSF Railway (BNSF)); FRA-
2018-0100 (Norfolk Southern Railway (NS)); FRA-2020-0001 (Canadian
Pacific Railway (CP)); FRA-2020-0008 (CSX Transportation, Inc.
(CSX)); and FRA-2020-0087 (Canadian National Railway (CN)) on
<a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a>.
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BLET and BRC state that computer-based training should only
complement, not replace, hands-on training. According to BRC, brake
system work is inherently physical, and a keyboard and mouse cannot
provide the same experience as manipulating and inspecting equipment in
person. Moreover, BRC notes that virtual training often generalizes
brake system features, thus failing to reflect differences between
railroads, and does not usually keep up with updated rail car designs.
BRC expresses concerns about new hires with no prior field experience
being especially vulnerable and about experienced carmen facing ``skill
atrophy'' through primarily virtual training.
SMART-TD and TTD also oppose the NPRM and urge that it be
rescinded, as railroading is a physical craft, not a virtual exercise.
SMART-TD contends that hands-on training is important because the
consequences of incorrect brake inspections or maintenance are
catastrophic. According to SMART-TD, virtual tools can serve as
supplements, not as adequate substitutes. Similarly, TTD asserts that
virtual training cannot replicate hands-on training, including factors
like weather conditions or physical and sensory inputs, and brake
[[Page 55786]]
system inspections, tests, and maintenance involve physical work by
nature. TTD contends that once virtual training becomes a regulatory
standard, the burden will fall on workers to prove why real-world
training remains necessary.
In their joint comments on the NPRM, AAR and ASLRRA cite to CSX's
2025 petition to renew its waiver, wherein CSX asserted that
``attendees have reiterated their approval of exposing students to
scenarios and conditions not easily [ ] replicated in the real world. .
. . To date, there have been zero employees who have elected to opt-out
of the detailed air brake simulation.'' \8\ FRA clarifies that
computer-based 3D simulation training under paragraph (b)(8) must be as
effective as other ``hands-on'' training methods under paragraph
(b)(8). If any employee fails to demonstrate the requisite knowledge or
abilities during any simulation method of refresher training, FRA
expects that the railroad will supplement the simulation training with
other refresher training that, for example, involves ``manipulating and
inspecting equipment in person,'' \9\ as the labor organizations stated
may be necessary for certain employees. FRA expects this approach will
help ensure a railroad is providing sufficient, effective refresher
training under paragraph (b)(8).
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\8\ <a href="https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0006">https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0006</a>
(quoting <a href="https://www.regulations.gov/document/FRA-2020-0008-0007">https://www.regulations.gov/document/FRA-2020-0008-0007</a>).
\9\ See, e.g., <a href="https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0004">https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0004</a>.
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AAR and ASLRRA, on behalf of themselves and their member railroads,
submitted comments, supporting the rule as proposed and stating that
the use of simulation for refresher training is in the public interest
and consistent with railroad safety, based on the waivers FRA has
granted to date. AAR and ASLRRA assert that such training allows
railroads to provide consistent, step-by-step, and content-based tools
that can evaluate knowledge regarding a variety of rail cars and
situations. AAR and ASLRRA note that virtual training provides
opportunities to include situations in a low-stress environment that
cannot be easily replicated in a physical environment without exposing
employees to potential injuries in an active work setting.
AAR and ASLRRA assert that simulation training is not new to FRA,
which has permitted railroads to use locomotive simulators to test
knowledge, examine skills, and monitor locomotive engineer performance
for purposes of engineer certification since 1991.\10\ Also, they flag
that virtual simulation training is not unique to railroading, as it is
widely used in the aviation, marine, and trucking sectors.\11\
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\10\ See 56 FR 28254 (June 19, 1991).
\11\ See, e.g., Federal Aviation Administration, FAA Continues
Rollout of Tower Simulation Systems to Improve Controller Training
(May 13, 2025), available at <a href="https://www.faa.gov/newsroom/faa-continues-rollout-tower-simulation-systems-improve-controller-training">https://www.faa.gov/newsroom/faa-continues-rollout-tower-simulation-systems-improve-controller-training</a> (The Tower Simulation Systems ``allow controllers to train
for complex airport configurations, develop scenarios that address
safety trends, practice runway crossing coordination and rehearse
phraseology'').
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AAR and ASLRRA contend that the feedback for railroads' virtual
simulation training programs has been ``almost uniformly positive
across the railroads,'' evidenced by the experience of some employees
expressing more comfort in asking questions and by the receipt of
positive feedback, including via exit surveys. Specifically, employee
trainees have reported in their exit surveys to railroads, following
such training, that they viewed the simulation experience favorably
over the traditional means of demonstrating proficiency. Those survey
results also indicate that the current and incoming generation of
railroad employees connect easily with digital technology and willingly
embrace simulations to reinforce existing skills.
FRA's final rule is generally consistent with waivers FRA has
granted to several Class I freight railroads to use computer-based 3D
simulation to meet the hands-on refresher training requirement.\12\ FRA
first granted this relief in 2012 in a waiver allowing BNSF to use web-
and desktop-based three-dimensional virtual simulation software, called
the Air Brake System Virtual Training Environment (ABSVTE), to satisfy
the hands-on portion of the periodic refresher training requirement for
train, yard, and engine service employees.\13\ Since that time, BNSF
reports having provided such virtual refresher training using ABSVTE in
over 72,000 training events, representing training provided to over
25,000 employees.
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\12\ See Docket Nos. FRA-2011-0074, FRA-2018-0100, FRA-2020-
0001, FRA-2020-0008, and FRA-2020-0087 on <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a>.
\13\ See Letter from FRA to BNSF (Jan. 20, 2012), available at
<a href="https://www.regulations.gov/document/FRA-2011-0074-0011">https://www.regulations.gov/document/FRA-2011-0074-0011</a>.
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The data collected from that experience, and recent FRA research
and analysis, show that the relief as proposed would be consistent with
railroad safety and benefit the public interest.\14\ FRA has found that
web-based or low-fidelity simulated brake system refresher training
effectively encourages knowledge retention, skill transfers, and
performance outcomes. Computer-based 3D training also provides students
with randomized scenarios that may not be readily available for hands-
on training, as well as real-time performance feedback. Computer-based
3D training may also be more consistently applied to all employees and
help reduce the risk of hazards or potential injury that may happen in
a field training setting. FRA believes that, while the labor
organizations raise worthy concerns, this final rule's limitation to
refresher training provides adequate mitigation.
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\14\ See, e.g., Federal Railroad Administration, Web-based
Simulator Training and Skill Transfer: Literature Review (April
2025), available at <a href="https://railroads.dot.gov/sites/fra.dot.gov/files/2025-04/Literature%20Review%20-%20Web%20Simulator%20and%20Training_0.pdf">https://railroads.dot.gov/sites/fra.dot.gov/files/2025-04/Literature%20Review%20-%20Web%20Simulator%20and%20Training_0.pdf</a>.
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Different types of freight equipment move across the nation's rail
network, freely interchangeable between railroads. As a result, FRA has
found that instructor-led, computer-based 3D simulation provides
employees with randomized scenarios on equipment types that may not
otherwise be readily available for hands-on training, as well as allows
for real-time feedback on employee performance of duties. Computer-
based 3D simulation training may also provide for more consistent
training across employees and reduce the risk of hazards or potential
injury that may occur in a field training setting.
FRA notes that the existing data, including those under a more
expanded inclusion of accident cause codes, show a downward trend
across most critical safety metrics, including air brake-related
accidents and incidents. For instance, operational test data provided
by BNSF is consistent with the smaller sample size of data to which FRA
had access. Notwithstanding the fact that BNSF used a narrower scope of
search criteria that resulted in a slightly more positive accident
outcome, FRA finds that the data still indicate safety improvement.
Moreover, FRA's accident analysis shows significant improvement when
compared to pre-waiver statistics.
In their joint comments, AAR and ASLRRA explain that since the
railroads have implemented their simulation training programs, at least
one Class I railroad has noted a reduction in certification revocations
and brake testing failures. More specifically, AAR and ASLRRA claim the
last decade was the safest on record, with virtual simulation being one
tool driving accident and employee injury rates down.\15\
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\15\ <a href="https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0006">https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FRA-2025-0127-0006</a>.
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[[Page 55787]]
Accordingly, FRA amends Sec. 232.203(b)(8) as proposed to provide
railroads the flexibility to use instructor-led, computer-based 3D
simulation to meet the hands-on refresher training requirement.
III. Regulatory Impact and Notices
A. Executive Order 12866 (Regulatory Planning and Review) and DOT
Regulatory Policies and Procedures
FRA has considered the impact of this final rule under E.O. 12866
(58 FR 51735, Oct. 4, 1993), Regulatory Planning and Review, and DOT
Regulatory Policies and Procedures.\16\ The Office of Information and
Regulatory Affairs within Office of Management and Budget (OMB)
determined that this final rule is not a significant regulatory action
under section 3(f) of E.O. 12866. FRA is amending section 232.203(b)(8)
to permit railroads to use computer-based 3D simulation to meet the
hands-on refresher training requirement for employees who perform brake
system inspections, tests, or maintenance.
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\16\ 49 CFR part 5; see also DOT Order 2100.6B, Policies and
Procedures for Rulemakings, available at <a href="https://www.transportation.gov/regulations/dot-order-21006b-policies-and-procedures-rulemakings">https://www.transportation.gov/regulations/dot-order-21006b-policies-and-procedures-rulemakings</a>; DOT Order 2100.7, Ensuring Reliance Upon
Sound Economic Analysis in Department of Transportation Policies,
Programs, and Activities, available at <a href="https://www.transportation.gov/mission/ensuring-reliance-upon-sound-economic-analysis-department-transportation-policies-programs">https://www.transportation.gov/mission/ensuring-reliance-upon-sound-economic-analysis-department-transportation-policies-programs</a>.
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FRA analyzed the costs and benefits of this final rule, which
allows railroads to use computer-based 3D simulation to satisfy the
hands-on portion of periodic refresher training for employees who
perform brake system inspections, tests, or maintenance. This final
rule provides some qualitative benefits as it enables training to
become more consistent across employees, provides an alternative method
to satisfy the hands-on portion of the periodic refresher training
requirement, reduces the risk of potential hazards or injury that may
occur in a field training environment, and facilitates real-time
feedback on performance of duties. This final rule will result in cost
savings for both the railroads and the Government. Through the
elimination of submitting waiver requests, railroads will no longer
have to allocate time to complete and submit such requests. Railroads
will no longer be required to submit waiver requests to be able to use
computer-based 3D simulation for hands-on training under section
232.203(b)(8). In addition, the Government will no longer have to
allocate the resources to process these waivers. Moreover, all
railroads, not just those granted a waiver, will have the flexibility
to use computer-based 3D simulation to satisfy the hands-on portion of
the periodic refresher training requirement.
B. E.O. 14192 (Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation)
E.O. 14192, Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation, requires
that for ``each new [E.O. 14192 regulatory action] issued, at least ten
prior regulations be identified for elimination.'' \17\ Implementation
guidance for E.O. 14192 issued by OMB (Memorandum M-25-20, March 26,
2025) defines two different types of E.O. 14192 actions: an E.O. 14192
deregulatory action, and an E.O. 14192 regulatory action.\18\
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\17\ Executive Office of the President, Executive Order 14192 of
January 31, 2025, Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation 90 FR
9065-9067 (Feb. 6, 2025).
\18\ Executive Office of the President, Office of Management and
Budget. Guidance Implementing Section 3 of Executive Order 14192,
Titled ``Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation,'' Memorandum M-
25-20 (Mar. 26, 2025).
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An E.O. 14192 deregulatory action is defined as ``an action that
has been finalized and has total costs less than zero.'' This final
rule is expected to have total costs less than zero, and therefore, it
is considered an E.O. 14192 deregulatory action upon issuance of this
final rule.
C. Regulatory Flexibility Act
The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601, et seq.) as amended
by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996,\19\
requires Federal agencies to consider the effects of the regulatory
action on small businesses and other small entities and to minimize any
significant economic impact. Accordingly, DOT policy requires an
analysis of the impact of all regulations on small entities, and
mandates that agencies strive to lessen any adverse effects on these
businesses. The term ``small entities'' comprises small businesses and
not-for-profit organizations that are independently owned and operated
and are not dominant in their fields, and governmental jurisdictions
with populations of less than 50,000 (5 U.S.C. 601(6)). No regulatory
flexibility analysis is required, however, if the head of an Agency or
an appropriate designee certifies that the rule will not have a
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.
The regulatory relief provided by this rule will result in cost savings
for many regulated entities, including small entities. Consequently,
FRA certifies that this final rule will not have a significant economic
impact on a substantial number of small entities.
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\19\ Public Law 104-121, 110 Stat. 857 (Mar. 29, 1996).
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D. Paperwork Reduction Act
This final rule offers regulatory flexibilities, and it does not
impose any new information collection requirements or modify any
existing information collection requirements. Therefore, an information
collection submission to OMB is not required under the Paperwork
Reduction Act of 1995, 44 U.S.C. 3501, et seq.
E. Environmental Assessment
FRA has analyzed this rule for the purposes of the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). In accordance with 42 U.S.C.
4336 and DOT NEPA Order 5610.1D, FRA has determined that this rule is
categorically excluded pursuant to 23 CFR 771.116(c)(15). This
rulemaking is not anticipated to result in any environmental impacts,
and there are no unusual or extraordinary circumstances present in
connection with this rulemaking.
F. Federalism Implications
This final rule will not have a substantial effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government. Thus, in accordance with E.O. 13132, Federalism
(64 FR 43255, Aug. 10, 1999), preparation of a Federalism Assessment is
not warranted.
G. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
This final rule will not result in the expenditure, in the
aggregate, of $100,000,000 or more, adjusted for inflation, in any one
year by State, local, or Indian Tribal Governments, or the private
sector. Thus, consistent with section 202 of the Unfunded Mandates
Reform Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-4, 2 U.S.C. 1532), FRA is not required
to prepare a written statement detailing the effect of such an
expenditure.
H. Energy Impact
E.O. 13211, Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly
Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use (66 FR 28355, May 22, 2001),
requires Federal agencies to prepare a Statement of Energy Effects for
any ``significant energy action.'' \20\ FRA has evaluated this final
rule in accordance with E.O. 13211 and determined that this final
[[Page 55788]]
rule is not a ``significant energy action'' within the meaning of E.O.
13211.
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\20\ 66 FR 28355 (May 22, 2001).
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I. E.O. 13175 (Tribal Consultation)
FRA has evaluated this final rule in accordance with the principles
and criteria contained in E.O. 13175, Consultation and Coordination
with Indian Tribal Governments (65 FR 67249, Nov. 6, 2000). The final
rule will not have a substantial direct effect on one or more Indian
tribes, will not impose substantial direct compliance costs on Indian
Tribal Governments, and will not preempt tribal laws. Therefore, the
funding and consultation requirements of E.O. 13175 do not apply, and a
tribal summary impact statement is not required.
J. International Trade Impact Assessment
The Trade Agreement Act of 1979 prohibits Federal agencies from
engaging in any standards or related activities that create unnecessary
obstacles to the foreign commerce of the United States. Legitimate
domestic objectives, such as safety, are not considered unnecessary
obstacles. The statute also requires consideration of international
standards and, where appropriate, that they be the basis for U.S.
standards. This final rule is purely domestic in nature and is not
expected to affect trade opportunities for U.S. firms doing business
overseas or for foreign firms doing business in the United States.
List of Subjects in 49 CFR Part 232
Penalties, Railroad safety, Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements.
The Final Rule
For the reasons discussed in the preamble, FRA amends part 232 of
chapter II, subtitle B of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations as
follows:
PART 232--BRAKE SYSTEM SAFETY STANDARDS FOR FREIGHT AND OTHER NON-
PASSENGER TRAINS AND EQUIPMENT; END-OF-TRAIN DEVICES
0
1. The authority citation for part 232 continues to read as follows:
Authority 49 U.S.C. 20102-20103, 20107, 20133, 20141, 20301-
20303, 20306, 21301-20302, 21304; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note; and 49 CFR
1.89.
0
2. Amend Sec. 232.203 by revising the second sentence of paragraph
(b)(8) to read as follows:
Sec. 232.203 Training requirements.
* * * * *
(b) * * *
(8) * * * Observation and evaluation of actual performance of
duties, or a simulation that is instructor-led, computer-based, and
three-dimensional, may be used to meet the ``hands-on'' portion of this
requirement, provided that such testing or training is documented as
required in paragraph (e) of this section; and
* * * * *
Issued in Washington, DC, under authority delegated in 49 CFR
1.89.
David A. Fink,
Administrator.
[FR Doc. 2026-17792 Filed 8-28-26; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-06-P
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