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Last week, Rep. Pete Sessions (R-Texas) introduced the Reforming Amtrak’s Inefficient Lines or RAIL Act (H.R. 4212).

The bill would cut Amtrak’s operating costs by eliminating five money-losing routes — as identified in the national passenger railroad’s October 2004 monthly performance report — and several services.

H.R. 4212 would require Amtrak to discontinue service on the Southwest Chief, California Zephyr, Empire Builder, Coast Starlight and Silver Star routes. In addition, Amtrak would be required to discontinue food and beverage service unless revenue exceeds the service’s cost (including labor), and eliminate sleeper and dining cars, lounge seating, checked baggage service and onboard entertainment.