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The freight-rail industry is vital to the nation’s economic and job growth, according to the House, which on Tuesday unanimously voted in favor of a resolution honoring the U.S. freight railroad industry and its employees.

The resolution was sponsored by Rep. Phil Hare (D-Ill.) and supported by 28 bipartisan cosponsors.

“Freight rail has played a critical role in the economic development of the United States and has helped to build cities and strengthen infrastructure throughout this great nation,” the resolution states.

Freight railroads generate about $265 billion in total annual economic activity, and directly or indirectly support more than 1.2 million U.S. jobs, according to the Association of American Railroads (AAR).

“We are honored the House has recognized the essential role the railroad industry has played in our nation's past and will continue to play in its future,” said AAR President and Chief Executive Officer Ed Hamberger in a prepared statement. "Whether it’s by supporting millions of American jobs, keeping the things we buy and use more affordable, or easing traffic congestion and lowering greenhouse gas emissions, freight rail provides tremendous benefits to America."