Lawmakers Press Surface Transportation Board on Rail Disruptions

A bipartisan group of Senators urges the Surface Transportation Board to ensure reliable, consistent rail service for American industries and shippers. 

Republicans Chuck Grassley of Iowa and Kevin Cramer of North Dakota, along with Democrat Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin, made the request in a letter with 19 other colleagues. 

The lawmakers say, “We are very concerned over the significant rail service disruptions occurring throughout the U.S. freight rail network.” 

Further, the group says, “We urge the STB to examine all constructive options towards ensuring reliable, consistent rail service is available to shippers across the U.S.” 

The letter also outlines concerns and issues raised by customers and labor organizations during an STB hearing last month. 

Farmers and grain shippers report they are unable to get empty railcars, leading to significant delays in delivering commodities to energy producers forced to curtail production. 

The letter is supported by the National Grain and Feed Association, National Mining Association, American Chemistry Council and Growth Energy.

(Story Courtesy of the NAFB News Service)