STB unveils independent rate-case study

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) yesterday released for review and consideration an independent study on rate case methodology alternatives.

The board commissioned the study from InterVISTAS Consulting LLC to assess the board's stand-alone cost (SAC) rate reasonableness methodology, according to an STB press release.

The study's scope required the firm to look for alternative methodologies to SAC that could be used to reduce the time, complexity and expense historically involved in rate cases; determine whether SAC is sufficient for large rate cases; and whether the board's simplified methodologies were appropriate alternatives to SAC.

The STB plans to host an economic roundtable next month to discuss the issues and conclusions in the report. Invited attendees include independent economists from InterVISTAS, the Transportation Research Board of the National Academy of Sciences and Georgetown University.

In addition, STB Chairman Daniel Elliott hopes to schedule a public hearing after the roundtable for all stakeholders and interested parties. The board will deliberate on potential regulations for large rate cases after considering expert and stakeholder views, according to the press release.