Begeman officially becomes STB chair

President Donald Trump has designated Ann Begeman as chair of the Surface Transportation Board (STB), the White House announced yesterday.

Begeman, a Republican, is serving her second five-year term on the board, following her nomination by President Barack Obama on Dec. 7, 2016, and her unanimous confirmation by the U.S. Senate on Dec. 9, 2016.

Her current term will expire Dec. 31, 2020, according to the STB.

Begeman's designation as STB chair was praised by the Association of American Railroads (AAR) and the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA).

"Our industry appreciates the deep knowledge and experience that Chair Begeman brings to the job — particularly her understanding of the necessary balance that the STB’s economic regulatory framework must strike between the ability of the industry to earn the revenues it needs to maintain a complex and increasingly technological network, while providing appropriate regulatory protections for rail shippers that spur the U.S. economy," said AAR President and Chief Executive Officer Edward Hamberger in a prepared statement.

Said ASLRRA President Linda Bauer Darr: "Ann has ably guided the STB as acting chair with her experience in the ways of Washington, and deep knowledge of the transportation industry. Her willingness to listen to all sides, and her insightful and smart assessment of complex problems has served the industry well."

Trump named Begeman acting chair of the STB in January 2017. He recently nominated Patrick Fuchs and Michelle Schultz to the STB. Their nominations have not yet received Senate confirmation.