Statement of Richard Harnish, executive director of the Midwest High Speed Rail Association (MHSRA), in response to the House’s legislation, passed on June 9, which would cut $242 million from Amtrak’s budget. The House supported the cuts by a narrow 216-210 margin.
“The House of Representatives’ decision to cut $242 million of Amtrak funding is counterproductive. This action is not inline with our country’s transportations needs.”
“The Senate can still prevent these cuts from moving forward. It’s critical the Senate stand up for millions of Americans who depend on the service by not letting these cuts pass.”
“Congress has consistently held our country back by failing to invest in modern transportation infrastructure. Our economy is less competitive because of members of Congress who want to cut, not grow, our nation’s passenger trains.”
“Members of Congress who try to defund Amtrak are out of touch with our current transportation needs. Despite a lack of investment, ridership has skyrocketed over the past decade. The service is growing, and needs adequate funding to serves the needs of millions of Americans.”
“We welcome Congress’ decision to invest in video cameras in locomotive cabs, but much more needs to be done. Our nation is exposed to unnecessary risk because Congress has failed to adequately fund Amtrak at a level that would afford the installation of modern safety systems like positive train control (PTC). This is unacceptable.”
“It’s up to the Senate to make sure this bill is corrected to include enough funding for Amtrak. This bill as it stands would contribute to the continuing decline of Amtrak services."
