Congressman Paul A. Gosar has introduced a new bill aimed at protecting railroads from theft. The proposed legislation, H.R. 4092, known as the Protect Railroads Against Illegal Looters (RAIL) Act, seeks to address issues related to interstate and foreign freight shipments by clarifying immigration consequences for those convicted under 18 U.S.C. ยง 659.
In a statement regarding the introduction of the bill, Congressman Gosar emphasized the threat posed by “transnational criminal theft organizations, particularly those tied to Sinaloa in Mexico,” which he claims endanger public safety and economic stability in the southwestern United States. He alleges that these organizations are involved in sophisticated cargo theft operations, often recruiting aliens to steal high-value consumer goods from freight trains.
Gosar argues that such thefts result in shipment delays and contribute to shortages and price increases while providing funds for further criminal activities. The disruptions are particularly impactful on border states like Arizona, key transit routes for goods between the U.S. and Mexico.
“The Protect RAIL Act discourages aliens from stealing goods transported as interstate or foreign shipment of freight,” Gosar stated, adding that it aims to protect operators from harm while ensuring those convicted of such crimes are deemed inadmissible for entry into the United States.
The bill has garnered support from several original cosponsors including Representatives Biggs (AZ), Biggs (SC), Boebert, Brecheen, Burchett, Ciscomani, Crane, Donalds, DesJarlais, Fallon, Fine, Fry, Gill, Guest, Hamadeh, Harrigan, Norman, Ogles, Rulli, Schweikert, Sessions, Van Drew, Weber and Williams (TX). It also has backing from outside groups like the Federation for American Immigration Reform and NumbersUSA.
