The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee has taken testimony on legislation dubbed, "Competition for Intercity Passenger Rail in America". This draft legislation, sponsored by the Committee Chair, Congressman John Mica of Florida, has raised concerns among passenger rail advocates.
The concerns center around what appears to be a risky privatization scheme that will leave the rest of the Amtrak system in a weakened position and leave other lines across the country, including those in Michigan, in a very vulnderable position.
Along with the risk to Amtrak operations in Michigan and elsewhere around the country, the Congressional Research Service has determined that the proposal could very well be unconstitutional.
Members are encouraged to contact Michigan's only representative on the committee, Congresswoman Candice Miller and tell her that rather than support this legislation, she support Amtrak's FY 2012 request for $2.2 billion as well as the high speed rail and intercity raill program's request for $2.5 billion. Funding these two programs at this level will help create jobs and ensure service continues in Michigan.
Arnold Weinfeld is Director of Strategic Initiatives and Federal Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.
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