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Amtrak: Passenger Train Priority and Right to Sue

This new law aims to improve Amtrak's on-time performance by giving passenger trains priority over freight trains. This could make rail travel more predictable and less delayed, saving passengers time and money. Amtrak will also gain the ability to enforce its rights in court independently, which is expected to increase the effectiveness of priority enforcement.
Key points
Amtrak passenger trains are to have preference over freight trains on rail lines, junctions, and crossings.
Amtrak gains the right to independently sue freight carriers in federal court for violations of this preference.
The goal is to reduce passenger train delays, which is expected to result in financial benefits for Amtrak and improved travel experience for citizens.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_1500
Sponsor: Sen. Durbin, Richard J. [D-IL]
Process start date: 2021-04-29
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Rail Passenger Fairness Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_1500.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-04-29.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Amtrak passenger trains are to have preference over freight trains on rail lines, junctions, and crossings.
  • Amtrak gains the right to independently sue freight carriers in federal court for violations of this preference.
  • The goal is to reduce passenger train delays, which is expected to result in financial benefits for Amtrak and improved travel experience for citizens.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Durbin, Richard J. [D-IL].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-29.

CATEGORIES

Transport Courts and Law