AAR calls on STB to withdraw proposed new regs

Association of American Railroads (AAR) President and Chief Executive Officer Edward Hamberger yesterday testified before the Surface Transportation Board's (STB) regulatory reform task force on proposed regulatory measures.

In prepared remarks, Hamberger reiterated AAR's call for the STB to promote and defend the economic regulatory structure Congress established through the Staggers Act, which deregulated aspects of railroad pricing and routing.

He also asked the STB to withdraw pending proposals for forced switching, revenue adequacy and limit price tests. The proposals are "inconsistent" with the Staggers Act, AAR officials said in a press release.

"A number of important issues await action by a full board, but the Regulatory Reform Task Force through critical sessions like this will be prepared to guide action once members are confirmed," Hamberger said. "We in the rail industry look forward to working with the task force and the board to ensure that balanced, reasonable regulations meet the needs of rail customers, railroads, and the American public."

The STB's session was focused on efforts to streamline agency processes.