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A bill to improve the transparency of Amtrak operations, and for other purposes.
1/22/2025, 11:56 AM
Summary of Bill S 174
Additionally, the bill mandates that Amtrak disclose any subsidies or financial assistance it receives from the federal government, as well as any contracts or agreements it enters into with other entities. This increased transparency is intended to ensure that taxpayers are aware of how their money is being used to support Amtrak's operations.
Furthermore, the bill includes measures to improve the accountability of Amtrak's leadership by requiring the company to establish clear performance metrics and goals, and to regularly report on its progress towards meeting these targets. This will help to ensure that Amtrak is held accountable for its performance and that it is working towards achieving its mission of providing safe, reliable, and efficient passenger rail service. Overall, Bill 119 s 174 seeks to promote greater transparency and accountability within Amtrak, ultimately benefiting both taxpayers and passengers who rely on the company for transportation services.
Congressional Summary of S 174
Amtrak Transparency Act
This bill increases Amtrak's open meeting and public disclosure requirements.
Specifically, the Amtrak Board of Directors must comply with federal open meeting requirements under the Government in the Sunshine Act.
In addition, at least 30 days prior to the board convening, the board must publicly post an announcement of the meeting and the anticipated meeting agenda.
The board must also annually convene a meeting to which state departments of transportation with long-distance routes or state-supported routes are invited to participate.
Further, Amtrak must publicly disclose the discretionary bonus compensation paid to an Amtrak officer or non-bargaining unit employee.
Upon request, Amtrak must also disclose to a state or the State-Amtrak Intercity Passenger Rail Committee vendor agreements of $250,000 or more for certain services on state-supported routes.
