March 14, 2023

Rep. Sykes Statement on Ohio Lawsuit Against Norfolk Southern

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Strong Sykes (OH-13) issued the following statement after the Ohio Attorney General announced the state has filed a lawsuit against Norfolk Southern over the Feb. 3 toxic train derailment in East Palestine: 

“I applaud the Ohio state government for taking steps to ensure Norfolk Southern is held accountable for the tremendous damage they have caused the people of East Palestine and the surrounding communities,” said Rep. Sykes. “This disaster was entirely preventable. If Norfolk Southern had not prioritized their profits over the health and safety of Ohioans, this could have been avoided. We owe it to all Americans to make sure hazardous materials aboard trains are safely transported through our neighborhoods.”

Rep. Sykes is the sole Ohioan on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.