Amtrak Plan to Allow Guns on Trains Sparks Outrage

The Transport Workers Union has strongly condemned Amtrak's plan to permit passengers to bring guns on trains in personal lock boxes, calling it 'sheer lunacy'. The new policy, scheduled to start in January 2027, would allow gun owners to take their weapons to their seats in lockboxes on an additional 1,500 trains a day across the US.

The union, which represents 360 onboard service workers at Amtrak, has expressed serious safety concerns about the plan. According to the union, gun owners will be able to bring their weapons in cases to an Amtrak station agent, who would add an Amtrak-owned combination lock. However, the union argues that this system is not foolproof and could put passengers and staff at risk.

Currently, Amtrak allows passengers to take guns on a few long distance trains, stored in secure baggage cars. The new policy would significantly expand this, permitting passengers to take guns to their seats in lockboxes on many more trains. This includes routes in Amtrak's Northeast Corridor, which sees about 750,000 passengers daily.

The Trump administration has pressured Amtrak to ease restrictions on transporting weapons, leading to the development of this new policy. The Transport Workers Union has criticized the plan, with International Rail Division director John Feltz stating that it is illogical to allow guns in passenger cars on trains when they are not permitted on planes.

## Why it matters The new policy has significant implications for passenger safety. With 1,500 additional trains affected daily, the potential risks are substantial. The union's concerns about the potential for defective locks or enraged riders accessing weapons are legitimate and highlight the need for careful consideration of the policy's impact. As the plan moves forward, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks and to consider the concerns of passengers and staff.

The implementation of this policy will be closely watched, and its impact on passenger safety will be carefully monitored. As the debate surrounding gun control continues, the decision to allow guns on trains is likely to be a contentious issue. With the safety of hundreds of thousands of passengers at stake, it is crucial that Amtrak and the relevant authorities carefully consider the implications of this policy and take steps to mitigate any potential risks.