The Obama administration proposed phasing out older tank cars tied to a deadly derailment a year ago and lowering speed limits as part of a set of new rules intended to reduce the risks of hauling crude oil. The proposal, which follows a series of fiery accidents, also will require improved braking systems and testing of crude oil before being loaded, according to Transportation Department statement today. The rule applies to shipments of corn-based ethanol as well as oil. “Today’s proposal represents our most significant progress yet in developing and enforcing new rules to ensure that all flammable liquids, including Bakken crude and ethanol, are transported safely,” Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said in Washington . The regulations are designed to update standards to account for an increase in the use of trains to carry flammable liquids, particularly crude oil from places like North Dakota’s Bakken field where production is […]