The State Safety Participation Program is a partnership between FRA and multiple states that employ safety inspectors in six railroad safety inspection disciplines. State programs emphasize planned, routine compliance inspections in coordination with FRA inspections. States may undertake additional investigative and surveillance activities consistent with overall program needs and individual state capabilities.

Before program participation can begin, each state agency must enter into a multi-year agreement with FRA for the exercise of specified authority. This agreement may delegate investigative and oversight authority regarding all or any part of federal railroad safety laws.

FRA provides classroom and on-the job training of state inspectors and reimburses states for travel and certain expenses related to training. The training program helps States to develop railroad safety programs and enables qualified State inspectors to maintain technical proficiency. FRA routinely provides on-the-job training to State inspector candidates as well.

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