SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – UTU Missouri State Legislative Director Ken Menges is halfway toward a goal of creating a public rail commission to study means of expanding and financing improved multi-modal passenger transportation in his state and throughout the Midwest, with an emphasis on creating a track network capable of supporting 150-mph rail passenger service.
In a show of bi-partisan support, the Missouri House of Representatives has voted 134-2 to create a 15-member commission to recommend best practices to “design, build, operate, maintain and finance an improved rail system for Missouri and the Midwest, including “specific recommendations for legislation, regulations, funding sources and way to integrate the improved rail system into existing and planned Amtrak expansions, airports and public transportation systems.”
The House bill is specific that the improved rail system be designed for 150-mph rail passenger service.
The focus now shifts to the state senate.
Menges said he has been working with representatives of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen and the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes, as well as Missouri railroads and the state DOT, to gather bi-partisan legislative support.
Related News
- Registration CLOSED for Atlanta Regional Training Seminar
- Have a Tip? Share Your News with SMART-TD!
- New California Law Protects Transit Workers
- National Rail Tentative Agreement Update: Q&As Complete, Voting Set to Begin
- From Skeptic to Supporter: Members Work Across the Aisle to Tackle Rail Safety
- Two Training Tracks Are FULL for Upcoming Atlanta Regional Meeting
- How Does a Government Shutdown Impact the Offices Members Rely On?
- The Truth From Within: General Chairpersons From CSX Statement on Departure of CEO Joe Hinrichs
- Update on National Rail Contract –Make Sure You Get Your Ballot
- Two RRB Field Offices Move to New Locations