Baldwin Pushes for Rail Reform in Economic Stimulus Bill
Wisconsin Ag Connection
December 8, 2008

Wisconsin Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin is calling on fellow lawmakers to include rail reform language in any economic stimulus package that is passed by Congress. The Madison Democrat, who sits on the House Judiciary Committee, says she would like to see legislation to ensure that the railroads are covered by the nation's antitrust laws--which would protect consumers, farmers and rural communities from runaway freight rail prices.

In a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Baldwin said the policy would need to be part of legislation in the stimulus package because the lack of competition in the railroad industry is adversely affecting American consumers, as well as the nation's agricultural and manufacturing sectors.

"As our nation's economy falters and American households try desperately to make ends meet, these four railroads announced record third quarter profits," Baldwin wrote. "Even as the railroads reported that they are moving less freight than a year ago."

The letter recommends new provisions, such as the Railroad Antitrust Enforcement Act, H.R.1650, in any economic stimulus package considered by this Congress. That proposal has already been adopted by both the House and Senate Judiciary Committees.

Baldwin also pointed out that many of the problems Congress is addressing with regard to the economy were "created in part by a lack of regulation and oversight in the largest financial institutions in America."

Pelosi has announced that congressional leaders will work to craft a stimulus package when Congress convenes for a special session on December 8.