Bill > S2104

This bill, known as the Reliable Rail Service Act of 2025, amends existing transportation law to strengthen requirements for rail carriers in providing service to shippers. The legislation expands the definition of "reasonable transportation service" by requiring rail carriers to meet shipper needs for timely, efficient, and reliable service. The bill directs the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to consider multiple factors when evaluating whether a rail carrier has met its service obligations, including impacts of service reductions, employment level changes, equipment availability, crew consolidation, and local operational requirements. Specifically, the bill requires the STB to examine how service changes affect transportation efficiency, such as reductions in employee levels, changes in crew availability, equipment maintenance, and infrastructure shifts. The legislation also mandates that any proceedings investigating potential rail carrier service violations must be expedited, with the board required to complete investigations within 180 days. If the board determines a rail carrier has failed to provide reasonable service, it can now prescribe specific service standards and transit times to ensure shipper needs are met. This bill aims to provide more robust protections for shippers and ensure more reliable rail transportation services.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2104/all-info