STB seeks comments on grain rate case procedures

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) is seeking public comments on rail rate case procedures for grain shippers.

The board is reviewing the procedures to ensure they are accessible to grain shippers and provide them effective protection, STB officials said in a press release. Comments are due by March 12, 2014, and the STB's replies are due by May 12, 2014.

The board has instituted a proceeding to obtain comments from interested parties on grain shippers' ability to effectively seek relief for rates deemed unreasonable, including input on proposals for modifying existing procedures, or for new, alternative rate-relief methodologies.

The proceeding follows an earlier one that explored grain transportation markets due to concerns expressed by grain producers, public officials and other stakeholders about rail rate and service issues. More recently, the board concluded another proceeding that reformed rate case procedures, but recognized that further review might be needed, STB officials said.