49 U.S.C. § 20504

Inspection, testing, and investigation

(a) Systems in Use.—

(1)

The Secretary of Transportation may—

(A)

inspect and test a signal system used by a railroad carrier; and

(B)

decide whether the system is in safe operating condition.

(2)

In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary may employ only an individual who—

(A)

has no interest in a patented article required to be used on or with a signal system; and

(B)

has no financial interest in a railroad carrier or in a concern dealing in railroad supplies.

(b) Systems Submitted for Investigation and Testing.—

The Secretary may investigate, test, and report on the use of and need for a signal system, without cost to the United States Government, when the system is submitted in completed shape for investigation and testing.

( Pub. L. 103–272, § 1(e) , July 5, 1994 , 108 Stat. 884 .)