By Blake Jackson
U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) have reintroduced the Reliable Rail Service Act, a bipartisan effort aimed at improving rail service reliability and affordability for American farmers, manufacturers, and other key industries.
The legislation addresses persistent issues of high shipping costs and unreliable rail service, particularly in states like Wisconsin and Kansas, where many businesses depend on freight rail to move their products efficiently.
The bill is designed to strengthen the rail supply chain by ensuring that the largest freight railroads meet their obligation to provide consistent service at fair rates.
Backed by various agricultural groups, labor unions, energy producers, and manufacturers, the legislation reflects growing concerns over the impact of disrupted rail services and soaring prices on U.S. businesses and consumers alike.
“Across the Badger State, our farmers, small businesses, and manufacturers rely on rail service to get their products to market and make ends meet,” said Senator Baldwin. “But when rail service is unreliable, it puts their livelihoods on the line, disrupts supply chains, and drives up costs for hardworking Wisconsin families. That’s why I am proud to work with my Republican colleague to once again introduce our Reliable Rail Service Act and help level the playing field for Wisconsin workers, grow our Made in Wisconsin economy, and keep costs down for consumers.”
The legislation clarifies the “common carrier obligation,” a longstanding requirement that railroads serve customers “on reasonable request.” This definition, currently vague, has led to service shortfalls and excessive costs. The bill would direct the Surface Transportation Board to use clear criteria when assessing whether railroads are fulfilling these duties.
“For years, dairy processors have struggled to use America’s rail system because of lack of reliability and reduced service schedules. The Reliable Rail Service Act is commonsense legislation that will provide greater clarity to the railroad’s common carrier obligations and ensure that they provide more dependable service at sensible rates,” said Dr. Michael Dykes, President and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association.
“IDFA applauds Sen. Baldwin and Sen. Marshall for introducing this legislation to improve transparency in the rail industry and restore the balance between carriers and shippers so the U.S. dairy industry can move products more reliably by rail.”
Photo Credit: gettyimages-alexeyrumyantsev
Categories: Wisconsin, Government & Policy