STB extends comment period for reciprocal switching proposal

The Surface Transportation Board has extended by 15 days the comment period on its proposed rule that would provide rail shippers access to reciprocal switching as a remedy for poor rail service.

Comments on the proposed rule now are due Nov. 7 and replies are due Dec. 6, STB officials said in a press release.

The Association of American Railroads had filed a motion seeking a 90-day extension of the comment period. The STB partially granted the request, finding that a 15-day extension "would reasonably accommodate potential commenters while also ensuring timely consideration of the issues."

The STB last month issued the proposed rule on reciprocal switching.