Amtrak’s Rail Fairness Act: Addressing Delays in US Rail

“`html

Introduction

U.S. Representatives Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.), Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.), and LaMonica McIver (D-N.J.) introduced the Rail Passenger Fairness Act (H.R.5570) on Monday. This bill aims to allow Amtrak to sue freight railroads for delays caused by freight train interference.

Background of the Legislation

The Amtrak Improvement Act, passed in 1973, stipulated that freight trains must prioritize passenger trains operating on their tracks. The Rail Passenger Fairness Act would enable Amtrak to take legal action against freight railroads in federal court if they fail to provide this preference, as stated in a press release from Deluzio’s office.

Impact of Freight Train Interference

Freight train interference has been the primary cause of delays for Amtrak in recent years. In 2023, freight train interference led to 900,000 minutes of delay for Amtrak trains, according to the press release.

Financial Implications of Delays

The Amtrak Office of Inspector General reported that poor on-time performance significantly contributed to Amtrak’s operating loss of $171 million in fiscal year 2018, as detailed in a 2019 report.

Conclusion

The Rail Passenger Fairness Act (H.R.5570), introduced by U.S. Representatives Deluzio, Boyle, and McIver, seeks to address delays caused by freight train interference, allowing Amtrak to sue freight railroads for non-compliance with existing preference rules. The bill is a direct response to the delays caused by freight train interference. In 2023, freight train interference resulted in 900,000 minutes of delay for Amtrak trains. A 2019 report by the Amtrak Office of Inspector General cited poor on-time performance as a key factor in Amtrak’s $171 million operating loss in fiscal year 2018.

Company Summary

Amtrak: Amtrak is a passenger railroad service.

“`