Company Directory - Norfolk Southern Corporation
CCI Score
CCI Score: Norfolk Southern Corporation
-6.06
-0.01%
Latest Event
Norfolk Southern Shifts Blame in $600M Settlement Trial
Norfolk Southern is seeking to have the railcar owner GATX and chemical manufacturer OxyVinyls share the financial burden of a $600 million class-action settlement related to its disastrous 2023 train derailment and the ensuing toxic chemical release, raising questions about its business ethics and accountability.
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COLLABORATOR
Norfolk Southern Corporation is currently rated as a Collaborator.
Latest Events
MAR302025Norfolk Southern is seeking to have the railcar owner GATX and chemical manufacturer OxyVinyls share the financial burden of a $600 million class-action settlement related to its disastrous 2023 train derailment and the ensuing toxic chemical release, raising questions about its business ethics and accountability.
- MAR192025
On March 19, 2025, Norfolk Southern highlighted its commitment to sustainability with notable milestones including the appointment of the industry’s first chief sustainability officer in 2007 and a science-based target set in 2021 to reduce GHG emissions by 2034, as detailed on its sustainability webpage and Forging a Better Tomorrow report.
+50
Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility
March 30
Norfolk Southern's long-term commitment to environmental sustainability—evidenced by early appointment of a chief sustainability officer and setting a science-based target to reduce GHG emissions—demonstrates proactive and ethical business practices. This aligns with broader efforts to mitigate environmental impact and protect marginalized communities who are often disproportionately affected by pollution and climate change.
- NOV012023
According to OpenSecrets, Norfolk Southern raised over $1 million through its corporate PAC during the 2023-2024 election cycle, highlighting its substantial involvement in political financing which may contribute to enhanced corporate influence over democratic processes.
-40
Political Contributions and Lobbying Efforts
March 30
Norfolk Southern's reported political funding exceeding $1 million indicates significant corporate involvement in the political arena. From a left-leaning perspective, such financial influence can potentially undermine democratic accountability by advancing corporate interests over those of the public, thereby aligning with authoritarian-friendly practices. Although the funds are raised under the guise of a 'Good Government Fund', the sheer scale of political financing raises concerns about the potential for influencing policy-making in favor of corporate power.
- AUG092023
Following a February 2023 derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, Norfolk Southern Corp. entered into a settlement agreement with OSHA and the Teamsters’ union. The agreement mandates improved worker protection measures including a medical surveillance program, mandatory safety training, development of an emergency response plan, and payment of OSHA penalties for four safety violations.
+70
Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices
March 30
The settlement agreement represents a positive shift towards improved labor conditions and heightened worker safety after a major derailment incident. By agreeing to enhanced safety protocols, increased training, and surveillance measures under union oversight, Norfolk Southern demonstrates responsiveness to regulatory and worker concerns, thereby supporting labor rights and human safety.
- JUL122023
Norfolk Southern Corporation released its annual ESG report 'Forging a Better Tomorrow' on July 12, 2023, detailing progress on environmental sustainability, enhanced rail safety, union partnerships including paid sick leave benefits, and initiatives to promote diversity and community engagement in areas such as East Palestine. These initiatives underscore the company's commitment to ethical labor practices and sustainable operations.
+50
Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices
March 30
The ESG report highlights Norfolk Southern's progressive measures including partnering with union leaders to provide paid sick leave and training for first responders, which supports fair labor practices and worker rights. Such initiatives are in line with ethical business practices and bolster community welfare, reflecting an anti-authoritarian, pro-worker stance.
Norfolk Southern shares progress on environmental, social, and governance initiatives
- APR032023
The article details Norfolk Southern's multi-million-dollar spending on lobbying and political contributions, including hiring high-profile lobbyists and direct financial support to lawmakers. This strategy appears aimed at influencing rail safety legislation amid repeated derailment incidents and ensuing regulatory scrutiny.
-80
Political Contributions and Lobbying Efforts
March 30
Norfolk Southern has spent significant sums on lobbying and political donations through its PAC and hiring former political aides. This spending is directed at influencing legislation and regulatory actions in ways that protect the company’s interests, undermining public accountability and safety reforms.
Norfolk Southern has spent millions on lobbying and political donations. Will it pay off?
-60
Executive Political Engagement
March 30
The company's executive leadership, including CEO Alan Shaw, has actively engaged with policymakers and testified on legislative matters. Although Shaw expressed some support for safety reforms, his measured endorsement alongside substantial behind‑the‑scenes political maneuvering indicates an overall effort to safeguard corporate interests over public accountability.
Norfolk Southern has spent millions on lobbying and political donations. Will it pay off?
- FEB032023
Following a February 3 derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, a Norfolk Southern train carrying toxic chemicals derailed, leading the EPA to order extensive environmental remediation. The company now faces multiple lawsuits, including one filed by the Ohio Attorney General and another initiated by the U.S. Justice Department, for negligence and violations of hazardous waste and water laws, impacting local communities.
-30
Public and Political Behavior
March 30
The incident has spurred significant governmental and public action, highlighting failure in safeguarding community health and safety. The resulting lawsuits demonstrate a neglect of public responsibility, undermining trust and accountability.
-50
Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility
March 30
The derailment and subsequent environmental contamination underscore serious lapses in operational safety and ethical responsibility. The company's response, including an apology and attempts to dismiss further legal action, has deeply eroded trust in its commitment to public and environmental well-being.
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