Train EATS Act

2/6/2025, 1:08 AM

Summary of Bill HR 264

Bill 119 hr 264, also known as the "Amtrak Food and Beverage Service Modernization Act," aims to amend title 49 of the United States Code to mandate that Amtrak provide both traditional dining options and a more affordable alternative for passengers on overnight routes. The bill seeks to ensure that passengers have access to a variety of food and beverage options while traveling on Amtrak trains.

The traditional dining service typically includes meals served in a dining car with table service, while the alternative service may offer more casual and cost-effective options. By requiring Amtrak to offer both types of services, the bill aims to cater to the diverse preferences and needs of passengers traveling on overnight routes.

In addition to mandating the availability of traditional dining and alternative food and beverage services, the bill also includes provisions for other purposes related to improving the overall dining experience for Amtrak passengers. This legislation is intended to enhance the quality and accessibility of food and beverage options on Amtrak trains, ultimately aiming to improve the overall passenger experience while traveling on overnight routes. Overall, Bill 119 hr 264 seeks to modernize and improve the food and beverage services offered by Amtrak, ensuring that passengers have access to a range of dining options that meet their needs and preferences.

Congressional Summary of HR 264

Train Establishment of Appetizing Table Service Act or the Train EATS Act 

This bill requires Amtrak to provide a range of dining services to passengers on overnight routes.

Specifically, Amtrak must make available (1) traditional dining (i.e., table service), to the extent practicable; and (2) an alternative food and beverage service that is more affordable than traditional dining.

On each overnight route, Amtrak must offer any traditional dining capacity not otherwise used by first-class or business-class passengers to passengers in coach class for a fee.

In addition, Amtrak must ensure that traditional dining on overnight routes includes (1) a healthy meal option, and (2) the option for passengers to preorder meals that satisfy their dietary restrictions.

The Department of Transportation must issue any necessary regulations.

Current Status of Bill HR 264

Bill HR 264 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 9, 2025. Bill HR 264 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on January 9, 2025.  Bill HR 264's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. as of January 9, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 264

Total Number of Sponsors
5
Democrat Sponsors
5
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
9
Democrat Cosponsors
9
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 264

Primary Policy Focus


Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 264

To amend title 49, United States Code, to require Amtrak to make traditional dining and an alternative, more affordable food and beverage service available to passengers on overnight routes of Amtrak, and for other purposes.To amend title 49, United States Code, to require Amtrak to make traditional dining and an alternative, more affordable food and beverage service available to passengers on overnight routes of Amtrak, and for other purposes.
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