From Investing.com:

President Biden visited East Palestine, Ohio a year after a Norfolk Southern train derailment that forced residents to evacuate and caused health and environmental issues. Speaking at the site, he called the incident “100% preventable” and urged Congress to pass a rail safety bill. Norfolk Southern CEO said more work is needed.

The president was joined by East Palestine Mayor Conaway, who invited Biden despite their political differences. Critics say Biden’s visit was overdue, but his administration insists the issue has been a priority. President Biden drank tap water and coffee, while the EPA reported no elevated pollution levels in the area.

Former President Trump visited East Palestine shortly after the derailment and criticized the federal response. The National Transportation Safety Board has yet to submit a final report but stated that 38 train cars derailed, causing a fire and the release of toxic chemicals. Norfolk Southern estimates cleanup costs of over $800 million.



Read more: Biden calls Ohio train derailment ‘an act of greed’ as he visits area a year later By Reuters