Statement of Anne Canby, Director, OneRail Coalition
On the Passage by Congress of the
American Rescue Plan Act
March 10, 2021
The OneRail Coalition, on behalf of its members, a diverse group of rail freight, passenger and transit industry stakeholders, applauds the United States Congress for today’s passage of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Among other needed measures, this vital legislation provides COVID-19 emergency funding of $1.7 billion for Amtrak, $30.5 billion for public transit agencies, continued assistance under Railroad Unemployment Insurance and additional support for the Railroad Retirement Board.
The American Rescue Plan Act funding will ensure critical transportation resources are available to provide essential mobility options for front-line and other workers, as well as provide a needed impetus to our national economic recovery.
OneRail commends the Biden Administration along with the House and Senate leaders and Committees who crafted this historic legislation, which recognizes the importance of rail to the U.S. economy.
We look forward to a continued partnership with Congress and the Biden-Harris Administration, including U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Buttigieg, to advance policies that underscore the benefits of a strong freight and passenger rail system in addressing climate challenges, providing well-paying jobs, and ensuring safe, efficient transportation of goods and people.
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