Legislation led by U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA) would require the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to issue regulations related to the transportation and labeling of hazardous materials.
Rep. Carter on June 11 sponsored Chief Chris Eddy’s Law, H.R. 9266, to require that placards be placed on all refrigerated shipping containers to let emergency responders know there’s a threat of pressurization from these containers.
The introduction of H.R. 9266, said the congressman, would help ensure that “those who protect us have the resources and information necessary to do so safely.”
The bill is named for Greene County (GA) Fire Rescue’s Battalion Chief Chris Eddy, who died in 2024 in the line of duty during an explosion caused by the rapid ignition of refrigerants inside a reefer storage container that were not properly labeled.
“Georgia lost one of our best in an accident that never should have occurred in the first place,” Rep. Carter said. “While we honor and remember Chief Eddy for his sacrifice and bravery, we must also commit to never allowing this tragedy to be repeated.”
Current Greene County Fire Rescue Chief Rodney Wiggins thanked Rep. Carter for his leadership and commitment to helping protect first responders from preventable tragedies.
“Chief Chris Eddy’s Law is a meaningful step toward improving responder safety nationwide and ensuring that Chief Eddy’s sacrifice continues to make a lasting difference in our profession,” Rodney Wiggins, Greene County Fire Rescue Chief, said.
The bill has been referred to the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for consideration.