7. a. The department shall adopt rules and regulations pursuant to the “Administrative Procedure Act,” P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), to effectuate the purposes of P.L.2025, c.300 (C.27:24A-1 et seq.) within one year after the effective date of P.L.2025, c.300 (C.27:24A-1 et seq.).
b. Notwithstanding any law, rule, or regulation to the contrary, the department shall implement the provisions of 49 C.F.R. Part 239 concerning emergency response, which provisions shall apply to all railroad companies operating within the State moving either passengers or freight. The department, within 30 days after a proposed major substantive change to the provisions of 49 C.F.R. Part 239 that, if adopted, would necessitate a corresponding substantive change to the implementation of the provisions of 49 C.F.R. Part 239 adopted pursuant to this section, shall provide written notice and a summary of the proposed substantive change to all railroads operating within the State moving either passengers or freight.
c. The department shall coordinate with the board through a memorandum of understanding to ensure alignment of regulatory activities where railroad safety initiatives intersect with utility infrastructure, grade crossings, or energy-related systems under the jurisdiction of the board.