House Transportation Committee members have introduced legislation to give railroads until the end of 2018 to implement positive train control safety measures. Rail officials say without an extension from the December 31 deadline there could be a shutdown of service. National Grain and Feed Association President Randy Gordon says they’re concerned about disruptions, but points out the railroads are still responsible for providing service especially during harvest.

Gordon says even if an extension is granted to the railroads, they’re required to submit an implementation plan to the Secretary of Transportation.

Transportation committee members say they’ll move their extension bill as a stand-alone measure rather than include it in the Surface Transportation authorization legislation.