Scheiding v. General Motors Corp.

Opinion

BROWN, J.

Almost 75 years ago, the United States Supreme Court held that the Locomotive Boiler Inspection Act (BIA or Act), now codified at 49 *474United States Code section 20701 et seq., “extends to the design, the construction, and the material of every part of the locomotive and tender and of all appurtenances.” (Napier v. Atlantic Coast Line (1926) 272 U.S. 605, 611 [47 S.Ct. 207, 209, 71 L.Ed. 432] (Napier).) Since Congress intended the Act to occupy this field, “requirements by the states are precluded, however commendable or however different their purpose. [Citations.]” (272 U.S.…