By Luca Filigenzi, Local News Editor
Over a year ago, around 9 p.m. on February 3rd, 2023 a Norfolk Southern train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio. There were no deaths or injuries on the night of the derailment itself, however, the train was carrying hazardous materials that raised alarm for the nearby communities. Notably, vinyl benzene and chloride were dumped from the train. Swiftly after cleanup began, citizens were informed of the situation that same night.
Local, state and federal governments all investigated the derailment. They started by ordering evacuations of the area, as to ensure that the damage from these chemical spills would be minimized. Governor Mike DeWine ordered funding from the Environmental Protection Agency, Center for Disease Control, and the Department of Health and Human Services. Presidential candidate Donald Trump and Senator Sherrod Brown both visited East Palestine shortly after, assuring that the people affected by the night were alright, giving food and giving political opinions on the incident.
Multiple individuals and businesses affected by the evacuations and cleanups recently filed class-action lawsuits against Norfolk Southern, hoping to be compensated for lost business and potential damage the chemical spill caused. On April 9th a deal was struck for Norfolk Southern to pay $600 million to affected citizens. Compensation was for time lost in the evacuation, potential emotional damages and solving the class action lawsuits.
“I suspect that the damage award will not be enough to cover all the repercussions in East Palestine. More broadly, I think this highlights our tattered regulatory processes,” Xavier history professor John Fairfield said. “We need to change our economy in such ways as to reduce our reliance on toxic substances and regulate more carefully the ones that can be avoided.”
Estimates suggest that about 100,000 people living within a radius of the crash site could be eligible for these funds. The $600 million figure is subject to increase. However, the potential dangers of the chemical spill will likely have further impacts upon the Eastern Palestine community, some we may not see for years to come.