Which federal agency oversees rail safety regulations?

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is the correct answer because it is the primary agency responsible for regulating and enforcing safety standards for railroads in the United States. This agency is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation and focuses specifically on promoting safe and efficient rail transportation through various regulations, inspections, and oversight. It is involved in everything from track maintenance practices to ensuring the safety of railroad workers and the public. The FRA develops rules and guidelines that govern how railroads operate, which is essential for maintaining the high safety standards necessary in the rail industry.

While other agencies have important roles in transportation safety, they do not specifically oversee rail safety regulations. For example, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is dedicated to aviation and air transportation, and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) primarily investigates accidents across various transportation sectors but does not regulate them. Moreover, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) encompasses various modes of transport and oversees overall transportation policy, but it is the FRA that specifically handles rail safety regulations.