Save Our Trains Michigan
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Amtrak funding still in flux
WASHINGTON -- A Senate Commerce Committee bill is aimed at keeping Amtrak from losing most of its federal subsidies. And although it is seen as moving quickly through the Senate, it is not an appropriations bill.
The difference is crucial, because only appropriations bills can provide funding. However, this bill is important because it reflects Senate bipartisan support for Amtrak.
Indeed, the Senate Commerce Committee bill suggests bipartisan support for retaining Amtrak as a national intercity rail passenger network, but actual funding still must be approved separately by House and Senate appropriations committees and, then, separately, by the entire House and Senate.
Any euphoria about Amtrak funding should be delayed. The matter is far from resolved; and even if Congress votes additional funds for Amtrak, the president has threatened a veto.
"This fight is far from over and nobody should be declaring victory or thinking about victory at this point," said UTU National Legislative Director James Brunkenhoefer. Some organizations are creating false expectations.
story
WASHINGTON -- A Senate Commerce Committee bill is aimed at keeping Amtrak from losing most of its federal subsidies. And although it is seen as moving quickly through the Senate, it is not an appropriations bill.
The difference is crucial, because only appropriations bills can provide funding. However, this bill is important because it reflects Senate bipartisan support for Amtrak.
Indeed, the Senate Commerce Committee bill suggests bipartisan support for retaining Amtrak as a national intercity rail passenger network, but actual funding still must be approved separately by House and Senate appropriations committees and, then, separately, by the entire House and Senate.
Any euphoria about Amtrak funding should be delayed. The matter is far from resolved; and even if Congress votes additional funds for Amtrak, the president has threatened a veto.
"This fight is far from over and nobody should be declaring victory or thinking about victory at this point," said UTU National Legislative Director James Brunkenhoefer. Some organizations are creating false expectations.
story
