STB Implements New Reporting Requirement For Railroads

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) announced May 6 it will require all Class I carriers to submit several specific reports on rail service, performance, and employment.

In addition, BNSF, CSX, NS, and UP are required to submit service recovery plans, progress reports, historical data, and participate in bi-weekly conference calls with Board staff.

“NGFA members continue to experience rail service issues in many areas of the country impacting feed availability for livestock, exports and processing facilities for food and fuel,” NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert said in response to STB’s announcement.

“The additional transparency should help the Board with its oversight and help shippers and receivers more efficiently plan operations and more accurately gauge when contingency plans are needed.

“Since the STB hearing on April 26-27, we have heard from NGFA members of continuing, and in some cases worsening, rail service issues,” Seyfert continued. “Today’s announcement is an important first step to getting rail service back on track.”

NGFA thanked Chairman Martin Oberman, Vice Chair Michelle Schultz and Board members Patrick Fuchs, Robert Primus, and Karen Hedlund as well as USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack and Deputy Secretary Dr. Jewel Bronaugh for their work emphasizing the importance of reliable rail service to U.S. agriculture.