The House Transportation subcommittee will hold a hearing looking at freight rail regulations this week. National Grain and Feed Association President Randy Gordon says he’s hoping as the House members form their legislation they take a strong look at Senator Thune’s bill that’s passed the Senate commerce committee.
Gordon says one of those strong provisions give the Surface Transportation Board the authority to investigate unreasonable rail practices rather than waiting for a complaint to be filed by a shipper. He also says this hearing is a chance to better determine the proper role of the S-T-B..
Gordon is hopeful the House will incorporate a portion of Senator Thune’s bill that will allow expansion of the S-T-B as well as giving them the ability to talk with each other prior to making decisions.