Sens. Rockefeller, Thune unveil STB Reauthorization Act

U.S. Sens. John Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.) and John Thune (R-S.D.) have introduced the STB Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2777), which proposes to increase the Surface Transportation Board's (STB) efficiency via internal process changes and timelier decisions to help improve rail service.

The bill would enable board members to work together in a more streamlined approach, and make it easier for railroads and shippers to discuss important issues with multiple STB members at once, the senators said in a press release. The legislation also would expand the number of STB members from three to five; eliminate a holdover limitation and allow limited board meetings without an initial public meeting notice, but with later public disclosure; allow the board to initiate some investigations and not just respond to complaints; and require the STB to establish a database of complaints and prepare quarterly reports on them.

"While the Surface Transportation Board has made good faith efforts to address concerns of freight shippers and railroads, the current inefficiencies in the STB's operations are symptomatic of the need for common-sense reform," said Thune, the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. "The modest bill that Chairman Rockefeller and I are introducing addresses many of the key inefficiencies and time delays I hear about from shippers by reforming the case review process."

The legislation also would change the case review process by requiring the board to establish timelines for stand-alone rate cases and a report on rate-case methodology. In addition, the STB would be required to hold a proceeding on the impact of contract bundling on shippers, and codify an arbitration process for certain rate disputes and carrier complaints.

"With additional reforms, the STB can better assist shippers and railroads alike, helping to ensure rail service problems are addressed in a balanced and timely manner," said Thune.

Rail shipper coalition Consumers United for Rail Equity (CURE) strongly supports the proposed bill.

"Making the STB an independent agency and expanding the board from three to five members will increase its effectiveness and timeliness," said CURE President Steve Sharp in a press release. "We also support moves toward increased transparency for meeting topics and participants, which requires disclosure of meeting topics and participants within two business days of the meeting."