Section 1. Section 72-21-101 is enacted to read:21. Commuter Rail System Electrification 72-21-101. Definitions.As used in this chapter:(1)"Commuter rail" means the same as that term is defined in Section 63N-3-602.(2)"Electrification infrastructure" means overhead catenary systems, substations, and related equipment necessary to supply electric power to commuter rail vehicles.(3)"Hybrid-electric" means a commuter rail vehicle capable of operating using electric power supplied by overhead catenary or third-rail infrastructure and onboard battery storage, without reliance on diesel propulsion during normal operations.

Section 2. Section 72-21-102 is enacted to read:72-21-102. Commuter rail electrification -- Hybrid-electric transition.(1)The department shall lead and coordinate the statewide transition of commuter rail service to hybrid-electric operation.(2)Before January 1, 2031, the department, in coordination with a large public transit district, shall:(a)convert each existing commuter rail vehicle to hybrid-electric operation or replace each existing commuter rail vehicle with a hybrid-electric commuter rail vehicle; and(b)install and operate the electrification infrastructure needed for hybrid-electric commuter rail vehicle operation.(3)Beginning July 1, 2027, a large public transit district may not place a commuter rail vehicle into service unless the vehicle is hybrid-electric.(4)The department may implement this section in phases by corridor or service segment to ensure continuity of commuter rail service.

Section 3. Effective Date.This bill takes effect on May 6, 2026.