Last month's deadly Amtrak crash that killed eight passengers and injured more than 200 when it derailed near Pennsylvania has prompted new legislation aimed at giving the rail service ample funding for needed safety improvements, particularly to its heavily traveled Northeast Corridor tracks.
Sponsored by Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.), the Railroad Reform, Enhancement, and Efficiency Act calls for spending approximately $1.65 billion annually over the next four years on the rail service, as well as $570 million per year on rail grants. Totaling upward of $9 billion, funds would help cover improvements to all Amtrak services and tracks and reorganization of the company's board of directors to ensure representation from multiple regions where Amtrak operates.
In a heavily criticized move, lawmakers in the House of Representatives last month called for a $3 million cut to Amtrak's funding the day after the headline-making derailment. The lower chamber had previously passed a $7.8 billion bill known as the Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act. The Senate's version of the measure would give Amtrak a slight increase over its current level of funding.
Rail supporters said they greatly prefer the Senate's version of the Amtrak funding measure because it does not cut the federal government's spending on the company.
"The nation's passenger rail system serves as an integral part of our overall transportation structure and our economy," Wicker said in a statement. "The tragic accident in Pennsylvania last month was a heartbreaking reminder that the system is far from perfect. This bipartisan measure would make robust improvements to safety programs, improve existing infrastructure, and empower state and local officials. The bill also leverages private sector investment, cuts red tape, and increases transparency to make our critical infrastructure dollars go further."
If you travel by train, the railway service and multiple other involved parties may be held liable in the event of an accident or other incident that causes an injury or loss. Contact RailJustice at 888-519-RAIL to find out if you have a case.
