    [Senate Hearing 118-783]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]

                                                            S. Hrg. 118-783

                                  NOMINATIONS
                        TO THE AMTRAK BOARD OF DIRECTORS

    =======================================================================

                                    HEARING

                                   before the

                             COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE,
                          SCIENCE, AND TRANSPORTATION
                              UNITED STATES SENATE

                        ONE HUNDRED EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS

                                 SECOND SESSION

                                   __________

                               SEPTEMBER 11, 2024

                                   __________

    Printed for the use of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation

                      [GRAPHIC NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]

                     Available online: http://www.govinfo.gov

                                      ______

                      U.S. GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE

    63-345 PDF                 WASHINGTON : 2026

           SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE, AND TRANSPORTATION

                        ONE HUNDRED EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS

                                 SECOND SESSION

                       MARIA CANTWELL, Washington, Chair
    AMY KLOBUCHAR, Minnesota             TED CRUZ, Texas, Ranking
    BRIAN SCHATZ, Hawaii                 JOHN THUNE, South Dakota
    EDWARD MARKEY, Massachusetts         ROGER WICKER, Mississippi
    GARY PETERS, Michigan                DEB FISCHER, Nebraska
    TAMMY BALDWIN, Wisconsin             JERRY MORAN, Kansas
    TAMMY DUCKWORTH, Illinois            DAN SULLIVAN, Alaska
    JON TESTER, Montana                  MARSHA BLACKBURN, Tennessee
    KYRSTEN SINEMA, Arizona              TODD YOUNG, Indiana
    JACKY ROSEN, Nevada                  TED BUDD, North Carolina
    BEN RAY LUJAN, New Mexico            ERIC SCHMITT, Missouri
    JOHN HICKENLOOPER, Colorado          J. D. VANCE, Ohio
    RAPHAEL WARNOCK, Georgia             SHELLEY MOORE CAPITO, West Virginia
    PETER WELCH, Vermont                 CYNTHIA LUMMIS, Wyoming

                       Lila Harper Helms, Staff Director
                     Melissa Porter, Deputy Staff Director
                         Jonathan Hale, General Counsel
                     Brad Grantz, Republican Staff Director
               Nicole Christus, Republican Deputy Staff Director
                         Liam McKenna, General Counsel

                                C O N T E N T S

                                  ----------
                                                                       Page
    Hearing held on September 11, 2024...............................     1
    Statement of Senator Cantwell....................................     1
    Statement of Senator Schmitt.....................................     2
    Statement of Senator Hickenlooper................................    57
    Statement of Senator Fischer.....................................    59
    Statement of Senator Markey......................................    61
    Statement of Senator Moran.......................................    63
    Statement of Senator Peters......................................    64
    Statement of Senator Welch.......................................    66
    Statement of Senator Klobuchar...................................    68
    Statement of Senator Blackburn...................................    70
    Statement of Senator Lujan.......................................    75

                                   Witnesses

    David Capozzi, Nominee to be a Director, Amtrak Board of
      Directors......................................................     4
        Prepared statement...........................................     5
        Biographical information.....................................     6
    Samuel Lathem, Nominee to be a Director, Amtrak Board of
      Directors......................................................    16
        Prepared statement...........................................    17
        Biographical information.....................................    18
    Ronald Batory, Nominee to be a Director, Amtrak Board of
      Directors......................................................    23
        Prepared statement...........................................    24
        Biographical information.....................................    25
    Elaine Clegg, Nominee to be a Director, Amtrak Board of Directors    32
        Prepared statement...........................................    33
        Biographical information.....................................    34

                                    Appendix

    Response to written questions submitted to David Capozzi by:
        Hon. Tammy Duckworth.........................................    79
        Hon. Raphael Warnock.........................................    80
        Hon. Shelley Moore Capito....................................    81
    Response to written questions submitted to Samuel Lathem by:
        Hon. Tammy Duckworth.........................................    82
        Hon. Raphael Warnock.........................................    82
        Hon. Ted Cruz................................................    83
        Hon. Shelley Moore Capito....................................    85
    Response to written questions submitted to Ronald Batory by:
        Hon. Tammy Duckworth.........................................    85
        Hon. Raphael Warnock.........................................    86
        Hon. Shelley Moore Capito....................................    87
    Response to written questions submitted to Elaine Clegg by:
        Hon. Tammy Duckworth.........................................    87
        Hon. Raphael Warnock.........................................    88
        Hon. Shelley Moore Capito....................................    89

                                  NOMINATIONS
                        TO THE AMTRAK BOARD OF DIRECTORS

                                  ----------

                               SEPTEMBER 11, 2024

                                           U.S. Senate,
            Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
                                                        Washington, DC.
        The Committee met, pursuant to notice, at 10:03 a.m., in
    room SR-253, Russell Senate Office Building, Hon. Maria
    Cantwell, Chair of the Committee, presiding.
        Present: Senators Cantwell [presiding], Klobuchar, Markey,
    Peters, Baldwin, Tester, Lujan, Hickenlooper, Warnock, Welch,
    Schmitt, Thune, Fischer, Moran, Blackburn, and Budd.

               OPENING STATEMENT OF HON. MARIA CANTWELL,
                      U.S. SENATOR FROM WASHINGTON

        The Chair. Good morning. The Commerce Committee will come
    to order. Today, we are having a hearing for the nomination of
    Amtrak Board members. Before we begin, though, I want to
    acknowledge the solemn anniversary of the September 11th
    attacks. Yesterday, President Biden issued a White House
    Proclamation declaring September 11, 2024, as Patriot Day, a
    national day of service and remembrance.
        On this day, we remember the innocent victims our Nation
    lost now 23 years ago. The Commerce Committee is here to meet
    to consider four of the President's nominees for Amtrak's Board
    of Directors.
        Amtrak is in the midst of one of the most significant
    transformations since it was founded over 50 years ago thanks
    to the bipartisan infrastructure law. While President Biden may
    be the company's most high profile supporter, I want to
    acknowledge members on both sides of the aisle here who
    continue to work on supporting Amtrak, holding the company
    accountable and ensuring our constituents get the services they
    deserve.
        The company is working to improve and grow its services.
    This year, ridership is on track to exceed pre-COVID levels,
    and so far this year it has returned the Northeast Corridor to
    operating in the black, making more in ticket sales than it
    costs to operate, and the company's service options are also
    growing.
        At the end of last year, the Amtrak added two round trips
    to the Cascades service between Seattle and Portland and made
    the Amtrak Borealis a new state-supported route, began service
    between Chicago and Saint Paul.
        And just last week, DOT announced Amtrak would receive a
    $64 million fund to advance high speed rail projects between
    Dallas and Houston. That is just one of the 69 new passenger
    rail borders in 44 states that the Federal Railroad
    Administration is working to develop in coordination with
    Amtrak.
        But despite these successes, challenges remain. In the wake
    of the DuPont derailment in the State of Washington, I worked
    to require FRA to conduct an in-depth safety assessment of
    Amtrak. In 2022, FRA found 30 areas where Amtrak could improve.
    And while Amtrak has work to complete 13 of those
    recommendations, more work needs to be done.
        The company also needs to significantly quicken its pace to
    become compliant with the Americans With Disabilities Act, as
    documented by the Amtrak Inspector General report. I want to
    thank my colleague, Senator Duckworth, for her work on that
    issue.
        This is the role of the Amtrak Board, to ensure that Amtrak
    is meeting the needs of American's transportation system and
    using taxpayer dollars wisely. Whether it is wise and effective
    infrastructure investment and ensuring that safety remains the
    top priority, it is the job of these Board members to make sure
    these issues are addressed.
        I especially want to thank my colleague, Senator Tester,
    for leading the fight to ensure that the Biden Administration
    nominated individuals from the West. Thanks to his efforts, the
    nominees here today and the most recent nominee announced this
    week bring a broad geographic representation that is much
    needed.
        Shortly, we will hear from the four President's nominees
    from the Amtrak Board of Directors. David Capozzi of Maryland.
    Am I saying that right, Capozzi? Who has dedicated his career
    to advocating for people with disabilities, including veterans.
    And as I mentioned, Senator Duckworth fought so hard on this in
    the infrastructure bill.
        Samuel Lathem of Delaware, who was a local labor leader and
    has extensive experience serving on public boards. Thank you.
    And Ron Batory. Is that right, Mr. Batory? Of Santa Fe, New
    Mexico, who has had a long career in private rail industry,
    including serving as the head of the FRA Administration under
    President Trump.
        And Elaine Clegg, who is from Boise, Idaho, who spent over
    20 years of public service in local government, including
    current role as Executive Director of the Valley Regional
    Transit, which serves 650,000 people.
        So I look forward to hearing from all of you and your
    priorities, should you be confirmed, on ways to improve Amtrak
    and hold the agency organization accountable. Now, I want to
    turn to Ranking Member Schmitt who is filling in today for
    Senator Cruz. Thank you, Senator Schmitt.

                    STATEMENT OF HON. ERIC SCHMITT,
                       U.S. SENATOR FROM MISSOURI

        Senator Schmitt. Thank you, Chair Cantwell. I want to thank
    the nominees for being here today. We are here to consider four
    nominees to Amtrak's Board of Directors. I am particularly
    grateful to Mr. Batory for his willingness to be a member of
    the Amtrak Board. With over 45 years of experience in the
    railroad industry, he would be a very valuable addition to the
    Board.
        Mr. Batory was the Administrator of the Federal Railway
    Administration during the final push to implement the railroad
    safety system known as Positive Train Control, or PTC, which
    can help prevent a derailment or other incidents from
    overspeed.
        When Mr. Batory came to FRA in 2018, only one-quarter of
    passenger rail route miles had fully implemented PTC. By the
    time he left the agency, Mr. Batory had gotten PTC compliance
    to 100 percent. He held hundreds of meetings with railroads and
    suppliers to make sure that every railroad met the deadline by
    the end of 2020.
        Mr. Batory is a proven leader who will bring a deep
    knowledge of railroading to the Amtrak Board. I will turn
    briefly to three issues that Republicans have raised
    previously. First, the Republican Board must fairly represent
    the interests of all Americans. Federal law allows no more than
    four of the Board's eight members to be from states along the
    Northeast Corridor.
        Last year, several Republican committee members noted that
    the Biden-Harris Administration had nominated too few Amtrak
    Board nominees from the Northeast--or too many, I should say,
    from the Northeast.
        The White House finally publicly committed to correcting
    this illegal and improper geographic imbalance. While I think
    there is more work to be done to include representation from
    areas such as the Midwest, where I hail from, I know several
    members of this committee are glad the White House has paid
    more attention to the law this time around.
        Second, the Amtrak Board must be more transparent and
    reasonable in its award of bonuses. Amtrak paid $75 million in
    bonuses last Fiscal Year, when the company received over $11
    billion in Federal funding awards and posted a net loss of
    $1.75 billion.
        After learning of this, Senators Fischer and Cruz wrote to
    Chairman Casa--I am sorry, Coscia, to demand more
    accountability. Americans back home may find it shocking to
    know that 14 Amtrak executives got bonuses in excess of
    $200,000 after nearly a $2 billion loss. Amtrak promptly
    committed to publicly posting bonuses following this letter.
        But the Government's passenger railroad must achieve better
    financial metrics and make more responsible use of taxpayer
    subsidies. I hope each of the nominees here today are willing
    to closely scrutinize future bonuses, particularly large sums
    for senior executives when Amtrak's financial performance has
    been poor.
        The third issue I want to raise to discuss is the
    spectacularly expensive Gateway Program between Newark and New
    York City that Amtrak is involved in. Gateway includes the
    Hudson Tunnel Project, which has now been awarded Federal
    funding to cover roughly three-quarters of its staggering cost
    of more than $15 billion.
        The Gateway Program cannot continue to balloon in cost. The
    $37 billion estimated total must not become $50 billion or $60
    billion. Having an Amtrak Board of Directors that provides
    effective oversight and demands accountability is more
    important than ever.
        I am eager to hear about the qualifications and vision that
    Mr. Batory, Mr. Capuzzi--Capozzi? All right. Thank you--sorry.
    Ms. Clegg and Mr. Lathem have for responsibly managing our
    country's national passenger railroad.
        Amtrak faces many difficult challenges ahead, including
    some of which I just described, and it is going to take
    skilled, experienced leadership on the Board to address those
    challenges. Thank you, Madam Chair.
        The Chair. Thank you, Senator Schmidt. Mr. Capozzi, we will
    start with you. Again, thank you to all the nominees for your
    willingness to serve.

     STATEMENT OF DAVID CAPOZZI, NOMINEE TO BE A DIRECTOR, AMTRAK
                           BOARD OF DIRECTORS

        Mr. Capozzi. Thank you. Thank you, Chair Cantwell, Senator
    Schmitt. I am honored to be here today as a nominee for
    Amtrak's Board of Directors. I am joined here with my wife,
    Patti, and last month, we celebrated our 40th wedding
    anniversary. So, congratulations to Patti.
        If confirmed, I will be the first person to fulfill the
    requirement in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that
    Amtrak's Board include at least one person with a disability
    who has a demonstrated history of, or experience with
    accessibility in passenger rail. I am the right person for that
    job.
        For over 35 years, I have worked to make transportation
    more accessible for people with disabilities. I was a member of
    the legal team for the disability community that helped craft
    the Americans With Disabilities Act.
        I testified in support of its passage before a House
    committee, and following the ADA's enactment, I chaired the
    Department of Transportation's Advisory Committee that provided
    recommendations for DOT's proposed ADA regulations.
        From 2008 until I retired from the Federal Government in
    2020, I served as Executive Director of the U.S. Access Board,
    the Federal agency whose mission is accessibility for people
    with disabilities. There, I led the development of guidelines
    and standards to implement the ADA and other Federal laws
    relating to accessibility.
        This included updating the requirements that apply to rapid
    light commuter intercity and high speed rail systems. I will
    bring my many years of experience to the Amtrak Board, both in
    Federal Government service and with nonprofit organizations, in
    addressing rail and other public transportation accessibility
    issues.
        I will also bring my commitment to ensure that Amtrak makes
    accessibility one of its highest priorities. Now, thanks to the
    Administration and Congress, there are unprecedented levels of
    funding for Amtrak, providing the opportunity to advance the
    vision of an expanded, improved, and accessible intercity
    passenger rail network.
        I am particularly excited to be nominated to Amtrak's Board
    at this time and to support Amtrak's efforts to fulfill its ADA
    obligations. But today, only about a third of the nearly 400
    stations for which Amtrak has or shares ADA responsibility meet
    the law's requirements. As part of a 2020 settlement with the
    Department of Justice, Amtrak made commitments to bring these
    stations into compliance with the law.
        As a member of Amtrak's Board, one of my areas of focus
    will be in providing leadership and attention in fulfilling
    Amtrak's obligations under the ADA and the DOJ settlement
    agreement. Of particular importance is ensuring that the new
    long distance equipment Amtrak plans to order within the next
    year meets or exceeds the ADA's requirements.
        Since passenger rail cars often have a service life of 40
    years or more and cannot be easily modified, it is important
    that the new equipment be designed and manufactured to optimize
    accessibility.
        I intend to work to ensure that happens. As an advocate for
    the disability community and later in my Federal Government
    service, I have spent my career helping to develop the
    accessibility laws, regulations, and guidelines that apply to
    Amtrak.
        Serving on its Board will enable me to oversee the
    implementation of those policies and help ensure that people
    with disabilities can travel without obstacles wherever they
    want to go by Amtrak.
        Thank you for your consideration of my nomination, and I
    will be happy to answer any questions. And if confirmed, I look
    forward to working cooperatively with the Committee.
        [The prepared statement and biographical information of Mr.
    Capozzi follow:]

        Prepared Statement of David Capozzi, Nominee to be a Director,
                           Amtrak Board of Directors
        Chair Cantwell, Ranking Member Cruz, distinguished members of the
    Committee, my name is David Capozzi. I am honored to be here with you
    today as a nominee for Amtrak's Board of Directors. If confirmed, I
    will be the first person to fulfill the requirement included in the
    Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, or IIJA, that Amtrak's Board
    include ``at least 1 individual . . . with a disability. . .who has a
    demonstrated history of, or experience with, accessibility, mobility
    and inclusive transportation in passenger rail or commuter rail.''
        I am the right person for that job. For over 35 years, I have
    worked to make rail transportation more accessible to individuals with
    disabilities. I was a member of the legal team for the disability
    community that helped Congress craft the Americans with Disabilities
    Act, or ADA. I testified in support of its passage before the House
    Committee of jurisdiction. Following the ADA's enactment, I chaired the
    committee formed by the Urban Mass Transit Administration, today the
    Federal Transit Administration, which developed the Department of
    Transportation's proposed rule to implement the ADA.
        From 1985 to 1989, I served as Associate Advocacy Director and
    National Advocacy Director for the Paralyzed Veterans of America.
    Subsequently, I spent three years as Vice President of Advocacy for
    Easterseals. There, I managed Project ACTION, a congressionally created
    program to promote cooperation between the disability community and the
    transportation industry to improve access to transportation for people
    with disabilities.
        In 1992, I joined the Access Board, the Federal agency whose
    mission is accessibility for people with disabilities. I served as its
    Executive Director from 2008 until I retired from the Federal
    government in 2020. During my time at the Access Board, I led the
    development of guidelines and standards to implement the ADA and other
    Federal laws relating to disability. This included updating the
    accessibility guidelines that apply to commuter, intercity, and high-
    speed rail systems.
        I will bring to the Amtrak Board my many years of experience, both
    outside of and within the Federal government, in accessibility issues
    involving rail and other public transportation. I will also bring my
    passion for ensuring that Amtrak makes accessibility one of its highest
    priorities, and the positive relationships I have developed with a wide
    range of groups representing the transit and disability communities.
        The IIJA provides unprecedented levels of funding for Amtrak and
    intercity passenger rail. It gives Amtrak and its stakeholders the
    opportunity to advance the vision of an expanded and improved--and
    accessible--intercity passenger rail network. Because I have long
    shared that vision, I am particularly excited to be nominated to
    Amtrak's Board at this time, and to support its efforts to achieve
    those objectives and fulfill its ADA obligations.
        Today, only about a third of the nearly 400 stations for which
    Amtrak has or shares ADA responsibility comply with the ADA. As part of
    a 2020 settlement with the Department of Justice, Amtrak made
    commitments to bring these stations into compliance. As a member of
    Amtrak's Board, one of my areas of focus would be in providing
    leadership and attention in fulfilling Amtrak's obligations under the
    ADA and the DOJ settlement agreement and working to secure the
    appropriate levels of funding for that purpose.
        Of particular importance is ensuring that the new long-distance
    equipment Amtrak plans to order within the next year meets and exceeds
    the requirements of the ADA. Since passenger railcars often have a
    service life of 40 years or more and cannot be easily modified, it is
    important that the new equipment is designed and manufactured to
    optimize accessibility. I intend to ensure that happens.
        As an advocate for the disability community and later in my Federal
    government service, I have spent my career helping to develop the
    accessibility laws, regulations, and guidelines that apply to Amtrak.
    Serving on Amtrak's Board of Directors would enable me to oversee their
    implementation, and to help ensure that individuals with disabilities
    can travel without obstacles wherever they want to go by Amtrak. I
    welcome that opportunity.
        Thank you for your consideration of my nomination. I will be happy
    to answer any questions and if confirmed I look forward to working
    cooperatively with the Committee.
                                     ______

                          a. biographical information
        1. Name (Include any former names or nicknames used): David Michael
    Capozzi.
        2. Position to which nominated: Amtrak, Board of Directors, Member.
        3. Date of Nomination: April 29, 2022 (original date of
    nomination).
        4. Address (List current place of residence and office addresses):

            Residence: Information not released to the public.
            Office: Information not provided.

        5. Date and Place of Birth: February 23, 1958; Buffalo, NY.
        6. Provide the name, position, and place of employment for your
    spouse (if married) and the names and ages of your children (including
    stepchildren and children by a previous marriage).

            Patricia Susan Capozzi (retired); David Matthew Capozzi--31;
            Megan Marie Capozzi--28; Margaret Ann Capozzi--28; Michael
            Elias Capozzi--28.

        7. List all college and graduate schools attended, whether or not
    you were granted a degree by the institution. Provide the name of the
    institution, the dates attended, the degree received, and the date of
    the degree.

            Tennessee Technological University
            September 1976-December 1976
            (No degree; stopped attending after car accident on January 2,
            1977 that resulted in my spinal cord injury; spent 7 months in
            hospitals)

            State University of New York at Buffalo
            September 1978-May 1982
            Bachelor of Arts--May 1982

            State University of New York at Buffalo Law School
            September 1982-May 1985
            Juris Doctor--May 1985

        8. List all post-undergraduate employment, including the job title,
    name of employer, and inclusive dates of employment, and highlight all
    management-level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to
    the position for which you are nominated.

            Paralyzed Veterans of America
            Associate Advocacy Director
            June 1985-June 1987

            Paralyzed Veterans of America
            National Advocacy Director
            June 1987-July 1989

            National Easter Seal Society
            Vice President for Advocacy and Director of Project ACTION
            July 1989-April 1992

            U.S. Access Board
            Director, Technical and Information Services
            April 1992-November 2008

            U.S. Access Board
            Executive Director
            November 2008-June 2020

        9. Attach a copy of your resume. See attached.
        10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time
    service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other
    than those listed above after 18 years of age.

       Mayor's Advisory Council--Project for Community Handicapped
            Integration Program, Advisory Council Member, Buffalo, NY,
            January 1981-April 1982

       Montgomery County Commission for People with Disabilities,
            Commission Member, Rockville, MD, August 1989-June 1991

        11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee,
    partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any
    corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise,
    educational, or other institution.

       Board of Directors, United Spinal Association, New York, NY,
            July 2020 to present

       Advisory Committee Member, Mobility Fitness, Atherton, CA,
            July 2020 to present

       Accessibility Professionals in the Built Environments Task
            Force Member, International Association of Accessibility
            Professionals, Atlanta, GA, July 2020 to present

       Program Committee Member, Access Living, Chicago, IL,
            September 2020 to present

       Advisory Council Morphic (making personal computers easier
            to use for everyone, including those with disabilities),
            College Park, MD, June 2021 to present

       Biden-Harris Policy Volunteer. August-October 2020

        12. Please list each membership you have had after 18 years of age
    or currently hold with any civic, social, charitable, educational,
    political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or religiously
    affiliated organization, private club, or other membership
    organization. (For this question, you do not have to list your
    religious affiliation or membership in a religious house of worship or
    institution.). Include dates of membership and any positions you have
    held with any organization. Please note whether any such club or
    organization restricts membership on the basis of sex, race, color,
    religion, national origin, age, or disability.

       The Disability Law Reporter Service, Prentice Hall Law &
            Business, Editorial Board Member, January 1991-January 1998

       Maryland Commuter Rail Key Station Plan Committee, Member,
            September 1991-April 1992

       Handicapped is Only a Word, Board Member, May 1992-May 1996

       U.S. International Council on Disabilities, Board Member,
            October 2005-September 2008

       National Spinal Cord Injury Association, a program of United
            Spinal Association, Member, June 2013 to present (in June 2020
            I was elected to the Board of Directors of the United Spinal
            Association)

        None restricted membership on the basis of sex, race, color,
    religion, national origin, age, or disability.
        13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held a public office
    (elected, non-elected, or appointed)? If so, indicate whether any
    campaign has any outstanding debt, the amount, and whether you are
    personally liable for that debt. No.
        14. List all memberships and offices held with and services
    rendered to, whether compensated or not, any political party or
    election committee within the past ten years. If you have held a paid
    position or served in a formal or official advisory position (whether
    compensated or not) in a political campaign within the past ten years,
    identify the particulars of the campaign, including the candidate, year
    of the campaign, and your title and responsibilities.

            Biden-Harris Policy Volunteer, August-October 2020

        15. Itemize all political contributions to any individual, campaign
    organization, political party, political action committee, or similar
    entity of $200 or more for the past ten years. None.
        16. List all scholarships, fellowships, honorary degrees, honorary
    society memberships, military medals, and any other special recognition
    for outstanding service or achievements.

       Honorary Member of the Kiosk Hall of Fame, February 2022

       2020 Service to the Citizen Award winner. The award
            recognizes those public servants who demonstrate excellence in
            their delivery of services that impact the public's lives,
            September 2020

       Received an award in Vienna, Austria from the Zero Project
            (focused on the rights of persons with disabilities globally)
            recognizing my longstanding cooperative efforts with the
            European Commission to harmonize global ICT accessibility
            standards, February 2016

       National Advocate Award, Project ACTION, May 1992

       Advocate Award, Access to the Skies Program, January 1992

       People Who Make a Difference, National award sponsored by
            Helene Curtis, April 1991

       Summa Cum Laude, May 1982

       Phi Beta Kappa, May 1982

       Alpha Lambda Delta National Honor Society, May 1982

       Psychology Departmental Honors, May 1982

        17. List each book, article, column, letter to the editor, Internet
    blog posting, or other publication you have authored, individually or
    with others. Include a link to each publication when possible. If a
    link is not available, provide a digital copy of the publication when
    available.
        See below for chapters in books, testimony, and speeches, videos,
    and articles.
    Books
            Capozzi, D. and Cannon D. (1995). Transportation Accessibility.
            In the Encyclopedia of Disability and Rehabilitation (1st ed.)
            (pp. 731-738). New York, NY: Macmillan Publishing. (website)
    Speeches, Videos, and Articles (samples)
            Impact of the Trace R&D Center: A panel discussion. Excerpts
            from a panel discussion at ASSETS 2021. October 14, 2021
            (website)

            This 1990 disabilities law ushered in a new era. U.S. Embassy
            in Georgia. July 20, 2020 (website)

            Disability Employment: Removing Barriers to Prosperity in
            Africa. Department of State hosted interactive webchat. October
            31, 2018 (website)

            Significance of Standardization and Antidiscrimination Actions
            Based on American Experience. Speech at Diversity Hub in
            Krakow, Poland. September 14, 2017 (website)

            A stick or a carrot? How do they do it in the US? Interview by
            Polish press. June 8, 2017 (website)

            FOIA committee mulls Section 508 responsibilities. Federal News
            Network. October 25, 2016 (website)

            ADA 25th Anniversary. Interview by WebABLE.tv. July 29, 2015
            (website)

        18. List all speeches, panel discussions, and presentations (e.g.,
    PowerPoint) that you have given on topics relevant to the position for
    which you have been nominated. Include a link to each publication when
    possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of the
    speech or presentation when available.

            Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, The
            Americans with Disabilities Act and Accessible Transportation:
            Challenges and Opportunities, November 17, 2011

            Accessibility for All: The Impact of ADA on Transportation
            Decision Making, DOT Civil Rights Conference, September 26,
            2012

            International Summit on Accessibility, Ottawa, Canada,
            Accelerating Progress Through Global Standards, Systems, and
            Tools, July 14, 2014

            Significance of Standardization and Antidiscrimination Actions
            Based on American Experience, Krakow, Poland, September 14,
            2017

            Shaping the EU Agenda for Disability Rights 2020-2030--U.S.
            Experiences with Accessible Public Transportation, Video
            Conference, February 26, 2020

            United Spinal Association Celebrates the 30th Anniversary of
            the Americans with Disabilities Act, Video Conference, July 15,
            2020

            Access Alliance Webinar, `Lessons from International Disability
            Advocates for New Zealand', February 21, 2022

            Disability Access and Inclusion Program, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
            (virtual presentation), July 26, 2022, (no link available;
            presentation attached)

            Accessibility of Information and Services, NDA Annual
            Conference 2022, Dublin, Ireland (virtual presentation),
            October 20, 2022

        19. List all public statements you have made during the past ten
    years, including statements in news articles and radio and television
    appearances, which are on topics relevant to the position for which you
    have been nominated, including dates. Include a link to each statement
    when possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of
    the statement when available.

            United Spinal Updates, Fulfilling the Promise of the ADA:
            Making Our Railways More Accessible, July 22, 2022, (link)

            National Public Radio, The ADA was a victory for the disabled
            community, but we need more. My life shows why, July 29, 2022,
            (link)

            Testimony of Mr. David Capozzi, Nominee to the Amtrak Board of
            Directors, United States Senate Commerce, Science and
            Transportation Committee, Hearing on Nominations, September 7,
            2022, (link)

        20. List all digital platforms (including social media and other
    digital content sites) on which you currently or have formerly operated
    an account, regardless of whether or not the account was held in your
    name or an alias. Include the full name of an ``alias'' or ``handle'',
    including the complete URL and username with hyperlinks, you have used
    on each of the named platforms. Indicate whether the account is active,
    deleted, or dormant. Include a link to each account if possible.

            LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-capozzi-36781713b

        21. Please identify each instance in which you have testified
    orally or in writing before Congress in a governmental or non-
    governmental capacity and specify the date and subject matter of each
    testimony.

       House Committee on Small Business, Subcommittee on General
            Oversight and the Economy, ``Testimony Regarding Small Business
            Administration Programs for Veterans,'' May 7, 1986.

       House Committee on the Judiciary, Subcommittee on Civil and
            Constitutional Rights, ``Testimony Regarding HR. 4119--The Fair
            Housing Amendments Act of 1986'', July 18, 1986.

       President's Task Force on Adoption, ``Adoption and People
            with Disabilities,'' November 16, 1987.

       Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs,
            Subcommittee on Housing and Urban Affairs, ``Need for a
            Comprehensive National Housing Policy'', April 14, 1988.

       House Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on
            Transportation, ``Fiscal Year 1990 Appropriations for the
            Department of Transportation and Related Agencies'', April 19,
            1989.

       House Committee on Public Works and Transportation,
            Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, ``The Americans with
            Disabilities Act,'' September 20, 1989.

       Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs,
            Subcommittee on Housing and Urban Affairs, ``Reauthorization of
            the Urban Mass Transportation Act,'' April 18, 1991.

       House Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on
            Transportation, ``Fiscal Year 1994 Appropriations for the
            Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board'',
            April 19, 1993.

       House Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on
            Transportation, ``Fiscal Year 1995 Appropriations for the
            Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board'',
            March 1, 1994.

       House Committee on Government Reform, Subcommittee on the
            District of Columbia, ``Mass Transit: Many Management Successes
            at WMATA, but Capital Planning Could Be Enhanced,'' September
            21, 2001.

       Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions,
            The Americans with Disabilities Act and Accessible
            Transportation: Challenges and Opportunities, November 17,
            2011.

       Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation,
            Hearing on Nomination to the Amtrak Board of Directors,
            September 7, 2022.

        22. Given the current mission, major programs, and major
    operational objectives of the department/agency to which you have been
    nominated, what in your background or employment experience do you
    believe affirmatively qualifies you for appointment to the position for
    which you have been nominated, and why do you wish to serve in that
    position?
        My background and employment experience make me particularly suited
    to serve as a member of the Board of Directors for Amtrak. Section
    22202 (a)(1)(B) of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act amended
    the composition of the Amtrak Board of Directors. The Board must now
    include at least one member who is an individual with a disability with
    a demonstrated history of, or experience with, accessibility, mobility,
    and inclusive transportation in passenger rail or commuter rail. I have
    been a wheelchair user since a car accident in 1977 and have the
    necessary experience for this position.
        I was a member of the legal team and was a lobbying captain for the
    disability community that helped craft the Americans with Disabilities
    Act (ADA); my expertise was helping with the transportation provisions.
    After enactment of the ADA, I chaired the Urban Mass Transportation
    Administration's (UMTA--now FTA) ADA Federal Advisory Committee. The
    Committee advised UMTA on developing its ADA transportation
    regulations. While at the Access Board I was responsible for the
    development of ADA accessibility guidelines for transportation vehicles
    and facilities. I also created an advisory committee to update the
    Board's rail vehicle guidelines; the committee provided its
    recommendations in July 2015.
        I know how to interact with a Board of Directors. At the Access
    Board I reported to a Board of twenty-five members: twelve
    representatives from most of the cabinet agencies and thirteen members
    of the public appointed by the President of the United States. I also
    know how to be a productive Board member. I was elected to the United
    Spinal Association Board of Directors in June 2020 and have actively
    participated in all Board activities since then. (I'm also a member of
    Amtrak Guest Rewards.)
        23. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to
    ensure that the department/agency has proper management and accounting
    controls, and what experience do you have in managing a large
    organization?
        If confirmed as a Board member, I expect to be responsible for
    attending and contributing during meetings, communicating with the
    President and Chief Executive Officer and other Board members,
    overseeing the performance of the President and Chief Executive
    Officer, and assisting in developing the annual budget and ensuring
    that proper financial controls are in place. I also expect to ensure
    that the company exercises its obligations to comply with laws and
    regulations specifically regarding accessibility for people with
    disabilities.
        As Executive Director at the Access Board I was responsible for
    $9.2 million in program expenditures and twenty-nine professional and
    support staff for the only Federal agency whose primary mission is
    accessibility for people with disabilities. I was responsible for
    strategic planning, personnel evaluations, budget justifications and
    execution, and rulemaking. I prepared agenda materials for 70 Board
    meetings and out-of-town events. I was a member of the Senior Executive
    Service since 2004. At the Access Board I received ``clean''
    independent audit opinions every year. I have extensive experience in
    public speaking. I was interviewed over 150 times for international,
    national, and local radio, television, and print media and was featured
    as a keynote and conference speaker at over 300 conferences and
    seminars including twenty-five international conferences. As a manager,
    I supervised the development of accessibility guidelines for the ADA,
    Architectural Barriers Act, Communications Act, and accessibility
    standards for information and communication technology and medical
    diagnostic equipment under the Rehabilitation Act. I also managed a
    small number of staff and contractors as Vice President of Advocacy for
    Easter Seals and the Paralyzed Veterans of America.
        24. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the
    department/agency, and why?
        In terms of accessibility challenges, Amtrak is facing
    implementation issues in making its stations accessible, ensuring that
    rail cars are procured to be the most accessible as possible, and that
    outreach to the disability community be improved.
        The Americans with Disabilities Act provided 20 years (to 2010) for
    Amtrak to make its stations accessible. Amtrak missed this deadline. As
    of April 2021, where Amtrak has sole and shared responsibility, 74 of
    386 stations are accessible. Amtrak expects to have full accessibility
    by September 2027 and will spend $900 million on station accessibility
    between 2021 and 2026. If confirmed as a member of the Board, I will
    provide strong advocacy to ensure the staff is accountable in meeting
    this goal.
        Amtrak has a fleet of about 1,300 cars. Amtrak plans to replace
    nearly 40 percent of its rail car fleet by 2031. Since many cars can
    last at least 40 years it is critical that the best procurement
    decisions are made to ensure accessibility for years to come.
        Improved outreach to the disability community is essential. Amtrak
    needs to improve its standing with the disability community largely
    because of its failure to meet its ADA obligations. In December 2020,
    Amtrak settled an ADA complaint with the Department of Justice (DOJ)
    which requires Amtrak to make its intercity rail system accessible,
    prioritizing stations with the most significant barriers to access.
    Amtrak will also train staff on ADA requirements and implement an
    improved process for accepting and handling ADA complaints. One result
    of the DOJ settlement is that Amtrak paid over $2 million to more than
    1,500 individuals who experienced disability discrimination while
    traveling or attempting to travel by train. Public outreach is one way
    to improve Amtrak's standing with the disability community. The
    Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act now requires the Amtrak Board to
    meet at least annually with representatives of Amtrak employees,
    representatives of persons with disabilities, and the general public to
    discuss financial performance and service results.
                       b. potential conflicts of interest
        1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation
    agreements, and other continuing dealings with business associates,
    clients, or customers. Please include information related to retirement
    accounts, such as a 401(k) or pension plan.
        I have received monthly social security payments and pension
    payments from my Federal service since July 2020. My arrangements are
    fully described in Part III of my Executive Branch Confidential
    Financial Disclosure Report (OGE Form 450). In connection with the
    nomination process, I have consulted with the designated Amtrak ethics
    representative to identify potential conflicts of interest. Any
    potential conflicts of interest will be resolved in accordance with the
    Amtrak Board of Directors' Code of Business Conduct and Ethics and the
    terms of Amtrak's Ethics Opinion Letter which has been provided to this
    Committee. I am not aware of any other potential conflicts of interest.
        2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or informal,
    to maintain employment, affiliation, or practice with any business,
    association, or other organization during your appointment? If so,
    please explain.
        Yes. My arrangements are fully described in Part III of my
    Executive Branch Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE Form
    450). In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with
    the designated Amtrak ethics representative to identify potential
    conflicts of interest. Any potential conflicts of interest will be
    resolved in accordance with the Amtrak Board of Directors' Code of
    Business Conduct and Ethics and the terms of Amtrak's Ethics Opinion
    Letter which has been provided to this Committee. I am not aware of any
    other potential conflicts of interest.
        3. Indicate any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other
    relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in
    the position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will
    resolve each potential conflict of interest.
        In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with
    the designated Amtrak ethics representative to identify potential
    conflicts of interest. Any potential conflicts of interest will be
    resolved in accordance with the Amtrak Board of Directors' Code of
    Business Conduct and Ethics and the terms of Amtrak's Ethics Opinion
    Letter which has been provided to this Committee. I am not aware of any
    other potential conflicts of interest.
        4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial
    transaction which you have had during the last ten years, whether for
    yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in
    any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the
    position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will resolve
    each potential conflict of interest.
        In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with
    the designated Amtrak ethics representative to identify potential
    conflicts of interest. Any potential conflicts of interest will be
    resolved in accordance with the Amtrak Board of Directors' Code of
    Business Conduct and Ethics and the terms of Amtrak's Ethics Opinion
    Letter which has been provided to this Committee. I am not aware of any
    other potential conflicts of interest.
        5. Identify any other potential conflicts of interest, and explain
    how you will resolve each potential conflict of interest.
        In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with
    the designated Amtrak ethics representative to identify potential
    conflicts of interest. Any potential conflicts of interest will be
    resolved in accordance with the Amtrak Board of Directors' Code of
    Business Conduct and Ethics and the terms of Amtrak's Ethics Opinion
    Letter which has been provided to this Committee. I am not aware of any
    other potential conflicts of interest.
        6. Describe any activity during the past ten years, including the
    names of clients represented, in which you have been engaged for the
    purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the passage, defeat, or
    modification of any legislation or affecting the administration and
    execution of law or public policy. None.
                                c. legal matters
        1. Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics,
    professional misconduct, or retaliation by, or been the subject of a
    complaint to, any court, administrative agency, the Office of Special
    Counsel, an Inspector General, professional association, disciplinary
    committee, or other professional group? If yes:
        No.
      a.  Provide the name of court, agency, association, committee, or
            group;

      b.  Provide the date the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
            personnel action was issued or initiated;

      c.  Describe the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
            personnel action;

      d.  Provide the results of the citation, disciplinary action,
            complaint, or personnel action.

        2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by
    any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal,
    State, county, or municipal entity, other than for a minor traffic
    offense? If so, please explain. No.
        3. Have you or any business or nonprofit of which you are or were
    an officer ever been involved as a party in an administrative agency
    proceeding, criminal proceeding, or civil litigation? If so, please
    explain. No.
        4. Have you ever been convicted (including pleas of guilty or nolo
    contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic
    offense? If so, please explain. No.
        5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual
    harassment or discrimination on the basis of sex, race, religion, or
    any other basis? If so, please explain.
        I have not had any complaints of harassment, discrimination, or
    retaliation made against me to any employer or any other entity with
    which I had a relationship (such as a contractor). However, when I was
    Executive Director of the Access Board (AKA ``Architectural and
    Transportation Barriers Compliance Board''), a former employee, Anita
    Kinney, filed both an equal employment opportunity (EEO) complaint and
    a complaint with the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB), against the
    agency. As Executive Director, my name was in the caption of both
    cases, but I was not named in my personal capacity. It is common
    practice for complaints against federal agencies to include the name of
    the agency head. All complaints were settled on March 2, 2021 after I
    had retired as Executive Director. (See https://www.pacermonitor.com/
    public/case/30172880/KINNEY_v_CAPOZZI). The current Executive
    Director's name was substituted for mine in the caption for the civil
    action in D.C. District Court, as is typical when the agency head is
    named in an official, rather than a personal, capacity.
        6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information,
    favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in
    connection with your nomination. None.
                         d. relationship with committee
        1. Will you ensure that your department/agency complies with
    deadlines for information set by congressional committees, and that
    your department/agency endeavors to timely comply with requests for
    information from individual Members of Congress, including requests
    from members in the minority? Yes.
        2. Will you ensure that your department/agency does whatever it can
    to protect congressional witnesses and whistleblowers from reprisal for
    their testimony and disclosures? Yes.
        3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested
    witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with
    firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee? Yes.
        4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly
    constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may be
    reasonably requested to do so? Yes.
                                     ______

                                DAVID M. CAPOZZI
    EXPERIENCE
    U.S. ACCESS BOARD
    Executive Director
    November 2008-June 2020
    Was responsible for $9.2 million in program expenditures and 29
    professional and support staff for the only Federal agency whose
    primary mission is accessibility for people with disabilities.

    Responsible for strategic planning, personnel evaluations, budget
    justifications and execution, and rulemaking. Prepared agenda materials
    for 70 Board meetings and out-of-town events. Member of the Senior
    Executive Service since 2004.

    Reported to a Board of 25 members: 12 representatives from most of the
    cabinet agencies and 13 members of the public appointed by the
    President of the United States. Received ``clean'' independent audit
    opinions every year.

    Extensive experience in public speaking. Interviewed over 150 times for
    international, national, and local radio, television, and print media;
    featured as a keynote and conference speaker at over 300 conferences
    and seminars including 25 international conferences.

    Developed accessibility guidelines for the Americans with Disabilities
    Act (ADA), Architectural Barriers Act (ABA), Communications Act, and
    accessibility standards for information and communication technology
    and medical diagnostic equipment under the Rehabilitation Act.

       Issued 6 notices of proposed rulemaking and preliminary
            regulatory assessments, 5 final rules and final regulatory
            assessments, and 6 other rules (advance, draft, or supplemental
            notices of proposed rulemaking); none of the rulemakings faced
            a legal challenge.

       Managed two Federal Advisory Committees on Rail Vehicle
            Access and Medical Diagnostic Equipment.

    Received new legislative responsibilities from Congress under the
    Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (accessibility standards for
    medical diagnostic equipment), Food and Drug Administration Safety and
    Innovation Act (best practices on providing accessible information on
    prescription drug container labels), and the Federal Aviation
    Administration Reauthorization Act (study to determine the feasibility
    of in-cabin wheelchair restraint systems).

    Coordinated with the Office of Management and Budget and House and
    Senate appropriations and authorizing committees.

    Managed the Board's ABA enforcement program. Updated a legacy complaint
    tracking system to accept complaint information via a web-based
    complaint form. Initiated a customer satisfaction survey; 80 percent
    rated their satisfaction at the highest rating.

    Was responsible for the Board's training, technical assistance, and
    research programs. Developed an online guide to the ADA and ABA
    standards with illustrated technical bulletins and a series of short
    animations that dynamically explain various requirements and the
    rationale behind them.

    Completed a multi-year research project that analyzed data from 500
    individuals who use wheeled mobility devices. Findings were compared to
    those in three other countries and to the current standards in those
    countries and the United States.

    Received full cost reimbursement from sponsoring groups for over 75
    percent of training sessions. Made training payment forms electronic to
    speed the internal review process. Began a monthly webinar series in
    partnership with the National Network of ADA Centers and a bi-monthly
    webinar series with the Chief Information Officers Council,
    Accessibility Community of Practice.

    Implemented a records management program. Met the requirements of the
    Managing Government Records Directive in January 2016 one year ahead of
    schedule. Transitioned the agency's procurement contract from the
    Department of the Treasury to the Department of the Interior to lower
    administrative costs. Moved e-mail to the ``cloud'' and acquired a
    voice over-the-internet telephone system. Was responsible for the
    agency's Internet presence. Managed its restructuring in July 2013 to a
    content management system; created a Twitter account in August 2015
    with over 1,700 followers.
    U.S. ACCESS BOARD
    Director, Technical and Information Services
    April 1992-November 2008
    Managed a staff of 14 professionals responsible for rulemaking,
    training, technical assistance, outreach, and research activities on
    accessibility issues.

    Developed accessibility guidelines and standards for the ADA, ABA,
    Communications Act, and Rehabilitation Act.

       Issued 13 notices of proposed rulemaking, 12 final rules,
            and 12 other rules (advance, draft, or supplemental notices of
            proposed rulemaking).

       Managed the successful completion of 12 advisory committees
            and two regulatory negotiation committees.

    Received new legislative responsibilities from Congress under section
    255 of the Communications Act, section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act,
    and the Help America Vote Act because of the agency's strong
    accessibility track record.

    Testified three times before Congressional committees.
    NATIONAL EASTER SEAL SOCIETY
    Vice President for Advocacy and Director of Project ACTION
    July 1989-April 1992
    Managed over $2.5 million in Federal projects, testified before
    Congress, and represented Easter Seals before Federal agencies.
    Responded to media inquiries and promoted the rights of people with
    disabilities through public speaking, information dissemination, and
    referrals.

    Chaired the Urban Mass Transportation Administration's (UMTA) ADA
    Federal Advisory Committee. The 26-member Committee advised UMTA on
    developing its ADA regulations.

    Managed Project ACTION (Accessible Community Transportation in our
    Nation), a $2 million multi-year research and demonstration project to
    improve access to public transportation for people with disabilities
    funded through a cooperative agreement with the Federal Transit
    Administration. Prepared a request for proposal solicitation and
    selected twenty-five projects to carry out model demonstration
    programs. Organized and conducted five Project ACTION National Steering
    Committee meetings.

    Conducted comprehensive research on transportation for people with
    disabilities. Published ``Project ACTION Reconnaissance Survey of 112
    Transit Systems'', and ``Project ACTION Combined Research Results''.

    Completed an award-winning multi-media campaign on how the ADA helps to
    facilitate accessible transportation. Initiated a quarterly newsletter,
    Project ACTION Update and prepared and distributed a free brochure:
    ``Securement of Wheelchairs and Other Mobility Aids on Transit
    Vehicles''.

    Managed a $421,000 project between Easter Seals, the Community
    Transportation Association of America, and the Department of Health and
    Human Services to provide technical assistance to human services
    transportation providers on the requirements of the ADA. Developed a
    national resource center for information dissemination, a toll-free
    technical assistance hotline, conducted ten workshops, and provided
    three regional training conferences.

    Managed a $100,000 cooperative agreement between Easter Seals, three
    transit trade associations and the Urban Mass Transportation
    Administration on the transportation implications of the ADA. Developed
    a 960-page implementation manual and a 14-minute explanatory videotape
    used at five regional conferences during a one-month period that were
    attended by over 700 individuals.

    Represented Easter Seals on the American National Standards Institute,
    ANSI A117 Committee--a voluntary national standards committee on
    architectural access for people with disabilities. Testified three
    times before Congressional committees.
    PARALYZED VETERANS OF AMERICA
    National Advocacy Director
    June 1987-July 1989
    Managed a staff of professionals who promoted and protected the rights
    of persons with disabilities. Was responsible for strategic planning,
    program budgeting, and staff performance evaluations. Developed and
    conducted annual training conferences for PVA members and volunteers.
    Wrote articles on disability issues for Paraplegia News, PVA's monthly
    magazine.

    Served as the lead negotiator on the Department of Transportation's
    Federal Advisory Committee that negotiated proposed regulations
    implementing the Air Carrier Access Act. Filed a lawsuit against the
    Department of Transportation to compel the issuance of final
    regulations; the case was settled, resulting in the issuance of the
    regulations.

    Championed a provision in the Airport and Airway Improvement Act
    providing $250,000 to develop the Nation's first boarding chair and
    lifting device for people with mobility disabilities to access commuter
    aircraft.

    Served as co-chair of the Transportation Task Force of the Consortium
    for Citizens with Disabilities--the largest coalition of disability
    groups in Washington, DC.

    Oversaw the purchase of the rights to operate the Access to the Skies
    program from Rehabilitation International, USA. Developed the program's
    first newsletter and an awards program that recognized contributions to
    safe, comfortable, and dignified air travel for people with
    disabilities.

    Testified 3 times before Congressional committees.
    PARALYZED VETERANS OF AMERICA
    Associate Advocacy Director
    June 1985-June 1987
    Maintained liaisons with Federal agencies and monitored issues
    regarding independent living, social security, and transportation.

    Briefed and prepared attorneys for oral arguments in a U.S. Supreme
    Court case, Paralyzed Veterans of America v. Department of
    Transportation.

    Worked closely with the National Council on the Handicapped (now the
    National Council on Disability) to develop policy statements and
    recommendations in their 1986 report, ``Toward Independence''. The
    recommendations served as the basis for the ADA.

    Organized and conducted PVA's Disability Rights conference which was
    attended by over 75 attorneys specializing in the legal rights of
    people with disabilities.

    Testified twice before Congressional committees.
    LEADERSHIP AND AWARDS
    Honorary Member of the Kiosk Hall of Fame, February 2022.

    2020 Service to the Citizen Award winner. The award recognizes those
    public servants who demonstrate excellence in their delivery of
    services that impact the public's lives. September 2020

    Received an award in Vienna, Austria from the Zero Project (focused on
    the rights of persons with disabilities globally) recognizing my
    longstanding cooperative efforts with the European Commission to
    harmonize global ICT accessibility standards. February 2016.

    Interagency Committee on Standards Policy, Standards Executive.
    September 2004-June 2020.

    Senior Executive Service. May 2004-June 2020. (The Senior Executive
    Service is a corps of 7,800 Federal employees who serve as the
    executive management of Federal agencies.)

    Section 508 Executive Steering Committee. September 1998-June 2020.
    (The Executive Steering Committee provides leadership to the Chief
    Information Officer Council's Accessibility Committee of Practice to
    improve implementation of Section 508, a law requiring that all
    electronic and information technology developed, procured, maintained,
    or used by the Federal government be accessible to people with
    disabilities.)

    National Advocate Award, Project ACTION, May 1992. Advocate Award,
    Access to the Skies Program, January 1992.

    People Who Make a Difference, National award sponsored by Helene
    Curtis, April 1991.

    Member of the ``legal team'' and lobbying ``captain'' for the
    disability community that helped craft the Americans with Disabilities
    Act. May 1989-July 1990.

    Congressional Task Force on the Rights and Empowerment of Americans
    with Disabilities, Member. June 1988-July 1990.
    EDUCATION
    STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK AT BUFFALO
    FACULTY OF LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE
    Juris Doctor--May 1985

    Admitted to practice law in the State of Pennsylvania (Bar number:
    052481 Retired)

    STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK AT BUFFALO
    FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES
    Bachelor of Arts--May 1982

    Summa Cum Laude  Phi Beta Kappa  Alpha Lambda Delta
    National Honor Society  Psychology Departmental Honors
    VOULNTEER ACTIVITIES
    Advisory Board Member, European Accessibility Resource Centre, Madrid,
    Spain, December 2022-Present.

    Board of Directors, United Spinal Association, New York, New York. July
    2020-Present.

    Advisory Committee Member, Mobility Fitness, Atherton, California. July
    2020-Present.

    Accessibility Professionals in the Built Environments Task Force
    Member, International Association of Accessibility Professionals,
    Atlanta, Georgia. July 2020-Present.

    Program Committee Member, Access Living, Chicago, Illinois. September
    2020-Present.

    Advisory Council Morphic (making personal computers easier to use for
    everyone, including those with disabilities), College Park, Maryland.
    June 2021-Present.

    Biden-Harris Policy Volunteer. August-October 2020.

        The Chair. Thank you, Mr. Capozzi. And thank you for that.
    And very important work on Americans With Disabilities. Mr.
    Lathem, welcome. We look forward to your testimony.

    STATEMENT OF SAMUEL E. LATHEM, NOMINEE TO BE A DIRECTOR, AMTRAK
                           BOARD OF DIRECTORS

        Mr. Lathem. Good morning. This is the day that the Lord has
    made, we will rejoice and be glad in it. Chair Cantwell,
    Senator Schmitt, other members of the Committee, my name is
    Samuel E. Lathem, and I appreciate the opportunity to appear
    before you today. I began working at the Chrysler plant in
    North Delaware in 1965 and retired from it 39 years later.
        I served in numerous union leadership positions as a member
    to the United Auto Workers, and as President of the Delaware
    State AFL-CIO, I also served as Administrator of the UAW
    Chrysler Training Center at the Newark plant. I have decades of
    experience as a Board member of Government created entities.
        Since 2001, I have been a commissioner with the Della River
    Valley Authority, or to DRVA, which operates the Delaware
    Memorial Bridge, three airports, and the Cape May Lewes Ferry,
    which is a great ride if you get an opportunity. I currently
    serve as the DRVA's Chair. I am also a former Board member of
    the Diamond State Port Corporation, which operates the Port of
    Wilmington.
        Like Amtrak, the DRVA and Diamond State have a public
    mission but earn much of their revenue from providing
    transportation-related services to customers. The Cape May
    Lewes Ferry carries about 700,000 passengers a year and is an
    essential service for many of its passengers.
        My experience with public transportation through the ferry
    is one of the reasons I am interested in serving on the
    Amtrak's Board. I have also served on the Boards of many
    charitable and educational labor and citizen organizations,
    including Junior Achievement, the Metropolitan Well-Being Urban
    League, The United Way of Delaware, and 4-H Foundation
    Committee.
        I formerly chaired the Delaware Advisory Council on Career
    and Vocational Education. I also serve as an Associate Minister
    at Cornerstone Fellowship Baptist Church in Wilmington. Before
    going to work in the auto industry, I served in the Army from
    1963 to 1965 at Fort Hood in Texas, First Armored Division.
        I received a Delaware Distinguished Medal from the State of
    Delaware, Department of Military Affairs Office of the Adjutant
    General. I know firsthand how important Amtrak is to travelers,
    businesses, and to the community it serves in which employees
    work and live.
        I spent my working career in an automobile plant. Located
    next to it was served by freight trains operated over Amtrak's
    Northeast Corridor. I live in Bear, Delaware where one of
    Amtrak's three major equipment maintenance facilities are
    located.
        As a lifelong resident of Delaware, a predominantly rural
    state outside of the Wilmington area, who has been involved
    with and led Statewide organizations, I appreciate the
    importance of Amtrak and other public transportation services
    to rural communities. I have worked on both sides of the labor
    management issues as a union official and a Board member of
    organizations with agreement covered workforces.
        I know how to work with people with different views and
    perspectives, and the importance of seeking a compromise that
    produces a win-win for both sides. I believe my experience in
    vocational education and training will be particularly useful
    at a time when Amtrak has been hiring large numbers of new
    workers to work out major construction projects funded by the
    Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
        I recognize how important it is for Amtrak to work with
    labor unions to provide good jobs, working conditions, and
    training for both its experienced and new employees. Thank you
    for your time, and if confirmed, I look forward to serving on
    Amtrak's Board.
        [The prepared statement and biographical information of Mr.
    Lathem follow:]

        Prepared Statement of Samuel Lathem, Nominee to be a Director,
                           Amtrak Board of Directors
        Good morning, Chair Cantwell, Ranking Member Cruz, and other
    members of the Committee. My name is Samuel E. Lathem, and I appreciate
    the opportunity to appear before you today.
        I began working at the Chrysler Plant in Newark, Delaware in 1965
    and retired from it 39 years later. I served in numerous union
    leadership positions as a member of the United Auto Workers (UAW), and
    as President of the Delaware State AFL-CIO. I also served as
    Administrator of the UAW-Chrysler Training Center at the Newark Plant.
        I have decades of experience as a Board member of government-
    created entities. Since 2001, I have been a Commissioner of the
    Delaware River Bay Authority, or DRBA, which operates the Delaware
    Memorial Bridge, three airports, and the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. I
    currently serve as DRBA's Chair. I am also a former Board member of the
    Diamond State Port Corporation, which operates the Port of Wilmington.
        Like Amtrak, DRBA and Diamond State have a public mission but earn
    much of their revenue from providing transportation-related services to
    customers. The Cape May-Lewes Ferry carries over 700,000 passengers a
    year and is an essential service for many of its passengers. My
    experience with public transportation through the Ferry is one of the
    reasons I am interested in serving on Amtrak's Board.
        I have also served on the Boards of many charitable, educational,
    labor, and citizen organizations, including Junior Achievement, the
    Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League, the United Way of Delaware, and
    the 4-H Foundation Committee. I formerly chaired the Delaware Advisory
    Council on Career and Vocational Education. I also serve as Associate
    Minister at Cornerstone Fellowship Baptist Church in Wilmington. Before
    going to work in the automobile industry, I served in the Army from
    1963 to 1965 at Fort Hood in the Texas 1st Armored Division. I received
    the Delaware Distinguished Medal from the State of Delaware Department
    of Military Affairs Office of the Adjutant General.
        I know firsthand how important Amtrak is to travelers, businesses,
    and to the communities it serves and in which its employees work and
    live. I spent my working career in an automobile plant located next to,
    and served by freight trains operating over, Amtrak's Northeast
    Corridor. I live in Bear, Delaware, where one of Amtrak's three major
    equipment maintenance facilities is located. As a lifelong resident of
    Delaware, a predominantly rural state outside of the Wilmington area,
    who has been involved with and led statewide organizations, I
    appreciate the importance of Amtrak and other public transportation
    services to rural communities.
        I have worked on both sides of labor-management issues as a union
    official and a Board member of organizations with agreement-covered
    workforces. I know how to work with people with different views and
    perspectives, and the importance of seeking compromises that produce a
    ``win/win'' for both sides. I believe my experience in vocational
    education and training will be particularly useful at a time when
    Amtrak has been hiring large numbers of new workers to carry out major
    construction projects funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs
    Act. I recognize how important it is for Amtrak to work with its labor
    unions to provide good jobs, working conditions and training for both
    its experienced and new employees.
        I thank you for your time, and if confirmed look forward to the
    serving on Amtrak's Board.
                                     ______

                          a. biographical information
        1. Name (Include any former names or nicknames used): Samuel Elijah
    Lathem.
        2. Position to which nominated: Director of the Amtrak Board of
    Directors.
        3. Date of Nomination: April 29, 2022.
        4. Address (List current place of residence and office addresses):

            Residence: Information not released to the public.
            Office: Information not provided.

        5. Date and Place of Birth: 10/22/1943; Woodlyn, Pennsylvania.
        6. Provide the name, position, and place of employment for your
    spouse (if married) and the names and ages of your children (including
    stepchildren and children by a previous marriage).

            Jean Koch Lathem, retired; Stepchildren: Rudy R. Koch/age 59;
            Allan E. Koch/age 57

        7. List all college and graduate schools attended, whether or not
    you were granted a degree by the institution. Provide the name of the
    institution, the dates attended, the degree received, and the date of
    the degree. None.
        8. List all post-undergraduate employment, including the job title,
    name of employer, and inclusive dates of employment, and highlight all
    management-level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to
    the position for which you are nominated.

            Various positions at the Chrysler Plant in Newark, Delaware
            (1965-2004)

            Administrator of the UAW-Chrysler Training Center (1990-2004)

            International Representative of the UAW (1999-2004)

            President of the Delaware AFL-CIO (2005-2015)

        9. Attach a copy of your resume.
        Attached.
        10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time
    service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other
    than those listed above after 18 years of age.

            Member, Interagency Council on Literacy

            Member, Board of Directors for the Diamond State Port
            Corporation (Port of Wilmington)

            Member, Delaware Workforce Investment Board

            Chairman of Delaware Advisory Council on Career and Vocational
            Education Chair (and formerly Vice Chair) of the Board of
            Directors of the Delaware River & Bay Authority

        11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee,
    partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any
    corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise,
    educational, or other institution.

            Member, Board of Directors for the Diamond State Port
            Corporation (Port of Wilmington); Commissioner on the Board of
            Directors of the Delaware River & Bay Authority.

        12. Please list each membership you have had after 18 years of age
    or currently hold with any civic, social, charitable, educational,
    political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or religiously
    affiliated organization, private club, or other membership
    organization. (For this question, you do not have to list your
    religious affiliation or membership in a religious house of worship or
    institution.). Include dates of membership and any positions you have
    held with any organization. Please note whether any such club or
    organization restricts membership on the basis of sex, race, color,
    religion, national origin, age, or disability.

            Board of Directors for Junior Achievement Kids Count Steering
            Committee

            4-H Foundation Committee

            Board of Directors of SURJ (Stand up for What's Right and Just)

            Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League

            United Way of Delaware

            Coalition of Black Trade Unionists

        13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held a public office
    (elected, non-elected, or appointed)? If so, indicate whether any
    campaign has any outstanding debt, the amount, and whether you are
    personally liable for that debt. No.
        14. List all memberships and offices held with and services
    rendered to, whether compensated or not, any political party or
    election committee within the past ten years. If you have held a paid
    position or served in a formal or official advisory position (whether
    compensated or not) in a political campaign within the past ten years,
    identify the particulars of the campaign, including the candidate, year
    of the campaign, and your title and responsibilities. None.
        15. Itemize all political contributions to any individual, campaign
    organization, political party, political action committee, or similar
    entity of $200 or more for the past ten years. None.
        16. List all scholarships, fellowships, honorary degrees, honorary
    society memberships, military medals, and any other special recognition
    for outstanding service or achievements.

            State of Delaware, Department of Military Affairs, Office of
            Adjutant General Distinguished Service Medal, December 3, 2015

        17. List each book, article, column, letter to the editor, Internet
    blog posting, or other publication you have authored, individually or
    with others. Include a link to each publication when possible. If a
    link is not available, provide a digital copy of the publication when
    available. None.
        18. List all speeches, panel discussions, and presentations (e.g.,
    PowerPoint) that you have given on topics relevant to the position for
    which you have been nominated. Include a link to each publication when
    possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of the
    speech or presentation when available. None.
        19. List all public statements you have made during the past ten
    years, including statements in news articles and radio and television
    appearances, which are on topics relevant to the position for which you
    have been nominated, including dates. Include a link to each statement
    when possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of
    the statement when available. None.
        20. List all digital platforms (including social media and other
    digital content sites) on which you currently or have formerly operated
    an account, regardless of whether or not the account was held in your
    name or an alias. Include the full name of an ``alias'' or ``handle'',
    including the complete URL and username with hyperlinks, you have used
    on each of the named platforms. Indicate whether the account is active,
    deleted, or dormant. Include a link to each account if possible. None.
        21. Please identify each instance in which you have testified
    orally or in writing before Congress in a governmental or non-
    governmental capacity and specify the date and subject matter of each
    testimony.
        On September 7, 2022, I testified before this Committee in
    connection with my prior nomination to the Amtrak Board of Directors.
        22. Given the current mission, major programs, and major
    operational objectives of the department/agency to which you have been
    nominated, what in your background or employment experience do you
    believe affirmatively qualifies you for appointment to the position for
    which you have been nominated, and why do you wish to serve in that
    position?
        I have over 30 years' experience in working with Amtrak, from my
    relationships in Delaware, which extend from the Bear Yard to the
    Regional Headquarters to the management of the Joseph R. Biden, Jr.,
    Railroad Station in Wilmington, DE. As President of the Delaware AFL-
    CIO, I worked tirelessly to advance the interest of all unions involved
    in Amtrak's system and supported diversity and inclusion efforts by
    providing a difference perspective. I understand the role Federal and
    state legislatures play in advancing interests to invest in passenger
    rail and the economic impacts needed to modernize not just the
    Northeast Corridor but the entire U.S. rail system. As a citizen, it
    concerns me that we have lagged behind the rest of the world in
    offering first class passenger rail services in our country. I believe
    it is my patriotic duty to serve my country in this role.
        23. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to
    ensure that the department/agency has proper management and accounting
    controls, and what experience do you have in managing a large
    organization?
        As both regional administrator for the UAW and President of a union
    organization with 45,000 members in the State of Delaware, I believe I
    understand budgetary challenges that Amtrak faces and in addition I
    understand the importance of and am familiar with standards for board
    governance and oversight of management and accounting controls.
    Further, I have first-hand experience in leadership positions on
    multiples boards, including as Chairman of the Board of Directors of
    the Delaware River & Bay Authority, and have demonstrated fiduciary
    responsibility to administer funds. Based on my experience on multiple
    boards, I understand the elements of oversight that are critical to the
    governance of Amtrak, and most importantly, to its long-term viability.
        24. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the
    department/agency, and why?

      1)  Ensuring the safety and security of Amtrak passengers and
            employees.

      2)  Providing the level of investment needed for capital projects;
            The COVID-19 pandemic created major budget challenges that will
            cause Amtrak to seek more governmental support than is typical.

      3)  Recruiting and retaining a highly skilled workforce; During the
            COVID-19 pandemic, there was a need to reduce the Amtrak
            workforce through a series of layoffs and furloughs, so it will
            be challenging to backfill positions with the specialized
            skills needed for a modern workforce.

                       b. potential conflicts of interest
        1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation
    agreements, and other continuing dealings with business associates,
    clients, or customers. Please include information related to retirement
    accounts, such as a 401(k) or pension plan.
        My arrangements are fully described in Part III of my Executive
    Branch Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE Form 450). In
    connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with the
    designated Amtrak ethics representative to identify potential conflicts
    of interest. Any potential conflicts of interest will be resolved in
    accordance with the Amtrak Board of Directors' Code of Business Conduct
    and Ethics and the terms of Amtrak's Ethics Opinion Letter which has
    been provided to this Committee. I am not aware of any other potential
    conflicts of interest.
        2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or informal,
    to maintain employment, affiliation, or practice with any business,
    association, or other organization during your appointment? If so,
    please explain.
        My arrangements are fully described in Part III of my Executive
    Branch Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE Form 450). In
    connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with the
    designated Amtrak ethics representative to identify potential conflicts
    of interest. Any potential conflicts of interest will be resolved in
    accordance with the Amtrak Board of Directors' Code of Business Conduct
    and Ethics and the terms of Amtrak's Ethics Opinion Letter which has
    been provided to this Committee. I am not aware of any other potential
    conflicts of interest.
        3. Indicate any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other
    relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in
    the position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will
    resolve each potential conflict of interest.
        In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with
    the designated Amtrak ethics representative to identify potential
    conflicts of interest. Any potential conflicts of interest will be
    resolved in accordance with the Amtrak Board of Directors' Code of
    Business Conduct and Ethics and the terms of Amtrak's Ethics Opinion
    Letter which has been provided to this Committee. I am not aware of any
    other potential conflicts of interest.
        4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial
    transaction which you have had during the last ten years, whether for
    yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in
    any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the
    position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will resolve
    each potential conflict of interest.
        In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with
    the designated Amtrak ethics representative to identify potential
    conflicts of interest. Any potential conflicts of interest will be
    resolved in accordance with the Amtrak Board of Directors' Code of
    Business Conduct and Ethics and the terms of Amtrak's Ethics Opinion
    Letter which has been provided to this Committee. I am not aware of any
    other potential conflicts of interest.
        5. Identify any other potential conflicts of interest, and explain
    how you will resolve each potential conflict of interest.
        In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with
    the designated Amtrak ethics representative to identify potential
    conflicts of interest. Any potential conflicts of interest will be
    resolved in accordance with the Amtrak Board of Directors' Code of
    Business Conduct and Ethics and the terms of Amtrak's Ethics Opinion
    Letter which has been provided to this Committee. I am not aware of any
    other potential conflicts of interest.
        6. Describe any activity during the past ten years, including the
    names of clients represented, in which you have been engaged for the
    purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the passage, defeat, or
    modification of any legislation or affecting the administration and
    execution of law or public policy. None.
                                c. legal matters
    1.  Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics,
            professional misconduct, or retaliation by, or been the subject
            of a complaint to, any court, administrative agency, the Office
            of Special Counsel, an Inspector General, professional
            association, disciplinary committee, or other professional
            group? If yes:
        No

      a.  Provide the name of court, agency, association, committee, or
            group;
            N/A

      b.  Provide the date the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
            personnel action was issued or initiated;
            N/A

      c.  Describe the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
            personnel action;
            N/A

      d.  Provide the results of the citation, disciplinary action,
            complaint, or personnel action.
            N/A
        2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by
    any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal,
    State, county, or municipal entity, other than for a minor traffic
    offense? If so, please explain. No.
        3. Have you or any business or nonprofit of which you are or were
    an officer ever been involved as a party in an administrative agency
    proceeding, criminal proceeding, or civil litigation? If so, please
    explain. No.
        4. Have you ever been convicted. (including pleas of guilty or nolo
    contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic
    offense? If so, please explain. No.
        5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual
    harassment or discrimination on the basis of sex, race, religion, or
    any other basis? If so, please explain. No.
        6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information,
    favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in
    connection with your nomination.
        N/A
                         d. relationship with committee
        1. Will you ensure that your department/agency complies with
    deadlines for information set by congressional committees, and that
    your department/agency endeavors to timely comply with requests for
    information from individual Members of Congress, including requests
    from members in the minority? Yes.
        2. Will you ensure that your department/agency does whatever it can
    to protect congressional witnesses and whistleblowers from reprisal for
    their testimony and disclosures? Yes.
        3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested
    witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with
    firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee? Yes.
        4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly
    constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may be
    reasonably requested to do so? Yes.
                                     ______

                         Resume of Samuel Elijah Lathem
    Samuel E. Lathem was born on October 22, 1943 at home in Woodlyn,
    Pennsylvania to Letty and James Lathem. A birth certificate was issued
    by Chester Hospital in Chester, Pennsylvania.
    Service Record
    Samuel Lathem attended Woodlyn Elementary School in Woodlyn,
    Pennsylvania. He went to live with an uncle in Kankakee, Illinois and
    attended junior high school there. He then finished junior high school
    at Showalter Junior High in Chester, Pennsylvania. He attended Chester
    High School and left in 11th grade (1963) to enlist in the armed
    forces.

    Samuel Lathem served in the U.S. Army from 1963-1965. He completed his
    basic training at Fort Gordon, Georgia and MOS training at Fort Hood,
    Texas. He served in Entry Battalion, 6th Artillery, 1st Armed Division.
    Promoted to GE4, wheel track mechanic. He was honorably discharged in
    1965, U.S. 52 565 403.
    Employment
    Employed by Chrysler Corporation, Newark Assembly Plant, beginning in
    1965.

    Became a member of UAW Local 1183, Newark, Delaware. In 1990, appointed
    Administrator of the UAW Region 8 Training Center, Newark, Delaware.
    Appointed International Representative of the UAW in 1999. Retired from
    UAW in 2003. In 2003, elected first African American to represent all
    of labor in the State of Delaware as the President of the State AFL-
    CIO.
    Community Service
    In 1976, Samuel Lathem was licensed to preach the gospel as a minister
    in the First Baptist Church, Marple, Pennsylvania. Ordained Baptist
    preacher in 1992 by New Hope Baptist Association at First Baptist
    Church in Morton, Pennsylvania. Currently serves as an Associate
    Minister at Cornerstone Fellowship Church in Wilmington, Delaware. Also
    attended Philadelphia College of Bible for two years.
    Community Positions
    Appointed by Governor Dale Wolf to serve on the Interagency Council on
    Literacy.

    Appointed by Governor Tom Carper to serve on Diamond State Port
    Corporation (Port of Wilmington), Workforce Investment Board.

    Elected to serve as Chairman of Delaware Advisory Council on Career and
    Technical Education. Appointed by Governor Ruth Ann Minner to serve as
    first African American as Commissioner of Delaware River and Bay
    Authority, and in 2020, became the first African American to serve as
    its Chairman.

    Appointed in 1996 to serve as first African American to cast votes in
    the Electoral College for Democratic candidate for President & Vice
    President.

        The Chair. Thank you, Mr. Lathem. And thank you for your
    service to the country. Mr. Batory, welcome. Look forward to
    your comments.

     STATEMENT OF RONALD BATORY, NOMINEE TO BE A DIRECTOR, AMTRAK
                           BOARD OF DIRECTORS

        Mr. Batory. Good morning, Chair Cantwell, Ranking Member
    Cruz, and distinguished members of the Committee.
        The Chair. Mr. Batory, could you just pull the microphone a
    little closer to you? Yes, thank you.
        Mr. Batory. Is this a little better?
        The Chair. Yes.
        Mr. Batory. There we go. Good morning, Chair Cantwell,
    Ranking Member Cruz, and distinguished members of the
    Committee. Thank you for the opportunity to appear before you
    this morning as a nominee for the Amtrak Board of Directors.
        I am a second generation railroader. My father worked for
    the New York Central Railroad System and later in his career
    was a full-time union official. After graduating from college
    in 1971, my first job was an hourly employee with the Detroit,
    Toledo and Ironton Railroad.
        I spent the next 46 years in a variety of railroad
    positions, nearly all of which were focused on operations. In
    1994, I became President of the Belt Railway company Chicago,
    the largest switching and terminal railroad in the United
    States, whose services and facilities are used by all the Class
    I railroads serving Chicago.
        From 2004 until 2017, I served as President of Conrail, a
    jointly owned subsidiary of Norfolk Southern Corporation and
    CSX. Conrail provides local freight operations and switching on
    behalf of those two railroads in the Philadelphia area,
    Northern New Jersey, including along Amtrak's Northeast
    Corridor and in the Detroit, Michigan area.
        I was preparing to retire from the railroad industry to
    move to my current home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and I decided
    to apply to be Administrator of the Federal Railroad
    Administration. At that time, I assumed the position February
    2018 following a Senate confirmation. FRA and the railroad
    industry faced an enormous challenge.
        The final deadline for implementation of the statutory
    requirement to install positive train control, or PTC, in
    nearly 58,000 miles of track to reduce the risk of accidents
    was less than 3 years away and it appeared that many railroads
    would miss the deadline.
        I took immediate action to ensure that that did not happen,
    including redeploying FRA staffing resources, providing
    additional technical assistance to railroads, and issuing
    public quarterly infographics tracking of each railroad's
    progress.
        I am gratified to report that as of December 29, 2020, 2
    days before the statutory deadline, all 41 railroads
    responsible for implementing PTC was done so on every mile of
    track on which it was required.
        Among the other important FRA accomplishments during my
    tenure was the issuance of a final rule long delayed by
    litigation followed by a previous FRA rulemaking that
    established metrics and minimum standards for all intercity
    passenger rail service.
        These metrics and standards are used to measure Amtrak's
    performance, including customer satisfaction, on time
    performance, and the extent to which Amtrak is serving
    communities that are not well served or served at all by other
    public transportation modes of which are long distance routes.
        In addition to my railroad operations experience, one of
    the things I brought to the FRA role of as Administrator would
    bring the Amtrak Board in many decades of experience dealing
    with all railroads stakeholder groups, including freight,
    commuter railroads, rail labor, and Federal, State, and local
    officials. I believe in maintaining respectful relationships,
    and I recognize that collaboration is essential in everything
    the railroad industry does.
        I consider myself to be a fact-based leader who is emphatic
    and willing to listen and learn from others. Safety has always
    been and will continue to be my highest priority. The
    opportunity to make railroads safer is one of the main reasons
    I sought the FRA Administrator job.
        As an Amtrak Board member, I would ensure the company's
    leadership is focused on safety and prioritizing it when
    allocating limited funding. I am very grateful for the
    opportunities the railroad industry has given me and to the
    many people I work with who taught me everything I know about
    railroading.
        I welcome the chance to continue to contribute to the
    industry. Thank you, Madam Chair, and I now look forward to
    answering the Committee's questions.
        [The prepared statement and biographical iformation of Mr.
    Batory follow:]

        Prepared Statement of Ronald Batory, Nominee to be a Director,
                           Amtrak Board of Directors
        Chair Cantwell, Ranking Member Cruz and distinguished members of
    the committee: Thank you for the opportunity to appear before you this
    morning as a nominee for Amtrak's Board of Directors.
        I am a second-generation railroader. My father worked for the New
    York Central Railroad and later in his career was a full-time union
    official. After graduating from college in 1971, my first job was as an
    hourly employee with the Detroit, Toledo and Ironton Railroad. I spent
    the next 46 years in a variety of railroad positions, nearly all of
    which were focused on operations.
        In 1994, I became the president of The Belt Railway Company of
    Chicago, the largest switching and terminal railroad in the United
    States whose services and facilities are used by all of the Class I
    railroads serving Chicago. From 2004 until 2017, I served as president
    of Conrail, a jointly-owned subsidiary of Norfolk Southern and CSX.
    Conrail provides local freight train operations and switching on behalf
    of those two railroads in the Philadelphia area and northern New
    Jersey, including along Amtrak's Northeast Corridor, and in the
    Detroit, Michigan area.
        As I was preparing to retire from the railroad industry and move to
    my current home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, I decided to apply to be
    Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration. At the time I
    assumed that position in February of 2018 following Senate
    confirmation, FRA and the railroad industry faced an enormous
    challenge. The final deadline for implementation of the statutory
    requirement to install positive train control, or PTC, on nearly 58,000
    miles of track to reduce the risk of accidents was less than three
    years away, and it appeared that many railroads would miss that
    deadline. I took immediate actions to ensure that did not happen,
    including redeploying FRA staffing resources, providing additional
    technical assistance to railroads, and issuing public quarterly
    infographics tracking each railroad's progress. I am gratified to
    report that as of December 29, 2020, two days before the statutory
    deadline, all 41 railroads responsible for implementing PTC had done so
    on every mile of track on which it was required.
        Among the other important FRA accomplishments during my tenure was
    the issuance of a final rule, long delayed by litigation following a
    previous FRA rulemaking, that established metrics and minimum standards
    for intercity passenger rail service. These metrics and standards are
    used to measure Amtrak's performance, including customer satisfaction,
    on-time performance and the extent to which Amtrak is serving
    communities that are not well served or served at all by other public
    transportation modes, most of which are along long-distance routes.
        In addition to my railroad operations experience, one of the things
    I brought to the role of FRA Administrator and would bring to the
    Amtrak Board is many decades of experience dealing with all railroad
    stakeholder groups, including freight and commuter railroads; rail
    labor; and federal, state and local officials. I believe in maintaining
    respectful relationships, and I recognize that collaboration is
    essential in everything the railroad industry does. I consider myself
    to be a fact-based leader who is empathetic and willing to listen and
    learn from others.
        Safety has always been and will continue to be my highest priority.
    The opportunity to make railroads safer is one of the main reasons I
    sought the FRA Administrator job. As an Amtrak Board member, I would
    ensure that the company's leadership is focused on safety and
    prioritizing it when allocating limited funding.
        I am very grateful for the opportunities the railroad industry has
    given me, and to the many people I worked with who taught me everything
    I know about railroading. I welcome the chance to continue to
    contribute to the industry.
        Thank you, Madame Chair. I now look forward to answering the
    Committee's questions.
                                     ______

                          a. biographical information
        1. Name (Include any former names or nicknames used): Ronald Louis
    Batory.
        2. Position to which nominated: Board of Director, Amtrak.
        3. Date of Nomination: May 2, 2024.
        4. Address (List current place of residence and office addresses):

            Residence: Information not provided to the public.
            Office: Information not provided.

        5. Date and Place of Birth: January 25, 1950; Detroit.
        6. Provide the name, position, and place of employment for your
    spouse (if married) and the names and ages of your children (including
    stepchildren and children by a previous marriage).

            Barbara Ellen Batory, retired; Erin Faye Budisak, daughter, 44.

        7. List all college and graduate schools attended, whether or not
    you were granted a degree by the institution. Provide the name of the
    institution, the dates attended, the degree received, and the date of
    the degree.

            Adrian College, 1967-1971, Bachelor of Arts, 1971,
            Eastern Michigan University, 1973-1975, Master of Arts, 1975.

        8. List all post-undergraduate employment, including the job title,
    name of employer, and inclusive dates of employment, and highlight all
    management-level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to
    the position for which you are nominated.
        Forty-six consecutive years of non-interrupted employment in the
    railroad industry, as set forth in the detailed resume provided in
    question #9.
        9. Attach a copy of your resume. Attached (career resume)
        10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time
    service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other
    than those listed above after 18 years of age.

            Senate confirmed appointee, Administrator, Federal Railroad
            Administration, U.S. DOT, 2018-2020

        11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee,
    partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any
    corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise,
    educational, or other institution.

            Trustee: Adrian College, J.W. Barriger National Railroad
            Library--UMSL, Kansas City Southern Railroad, Iowa Northern
            Railroad; Director: American Association of Railroad
            Superintendents, University of Denver--Transportation
            Institute, American Shortline & Regional Railroad Association,
            Center for Railroad Photography & Art, East Broad Top Railroad,
            Arkansas & Missouri Railroad, Hanson Professional Services,
            Inc.; Advisory: Historic Pullman Foundation, Anacostia Rail
            Holdings, RJ. Corman Railroad Group, RailPulse, Herzog,
            Michigan State University--Eli Broad College of Business--
            Center for Railway Research & Education, CSX.

        12. Please list each membership you have had after 18 years of age
    or currently hold with any civic, social, charitable, educational,
    political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or religiously
    affiliated organization, private club, or other membership
    organization. (For this question, you do not have to list your
    religious affiliation or membership in a religious house of worship or
    institution.). Include dates of membership and any positions you have
    held with any organization. Please note whether any such club or
    organization restricts membership on the basis of sex, race, color,
    religion, national origin, age, or disability.

            Fairlane Club (1976-2000), Union League Club of Chicago (1987
            to present), Laurel Creek Country Club (1999-2016), Las
            Campanas Country Club (2014 to present), The Lexington Group in
            Transportation History (1995 to present), American Association
            of Railroad Superintendents (1981 to present, former officer),
            Railway Tie Association (1976 to present), American Railway
            Engineering & Maintenance of Way Association (1975 to present),
            American Short Line & Regional Railroad Association (1995-2017,
            former officer), International Association of Railway Operating
            Officers (1976 to present), Midwest High Speed Rail Association
            (2005 to present), National Association of Railroad Passengers
            (1987 to present); Center for Railroad Photography & Art (2021
            to present), Historical Pullman Foundation (2021 to present),
            The Railway & Locomotive Historical Society (1990 to present).
            None of the listed entities restricts membership.

        13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held a public office
    (elected, non-elected, or appointed)? If so, indicate whether any
    campaign has any outstanding debt, the amount, and whether you are
    personally liable for that debt. None.
        14. List all memberships and offices held with and services
    rendered to, whether compensated or not, any political party or
    election committee within the past ten years. If you have held a paid
    position or served in a formal or official advisory position (whether
    compensated or not) in a political campaign within the past ten years,
    identify the particulars of the campaign, including the candidate, year
    of the campaign, and your title and responsibilities. None.
        15. Itemize all political contributions to any individual, campaign
    organization, political party, political action committee, or similar
    entity of$200 or more for the past ten years. None.
        16. List all scholarships, fellowships, honorary degrees, honorary
    society memberships, military medals, and any other special recognition
    for outstanding service or achievements. None.
        17. List each book, article, column, letter to the editor, Internet
    blog posting, or other publication you have authored, individually or
    with others. Include a link to each publication when possible. If a
    link is not available, provide a digital copy of the publication when
    available.

            LinkedIn (Professional) Five (5) posts railway related
            (positive recognition). Nothing else except those associated
            with my FRA tenure and I did not retain record of same.

        18. List all speeches, panel discussions, and presentations (e.g.,
    PowerPoint) that you have given on topics relevant to the position for
    which you have been nominated. Include a link to each publication when
    possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of the
    speech or presentation when available.

            Remarks of FRA Administrator Ronald L. Batory before the
            Association of State Rail Safety Managers

            Prepared Remarks for Administrator Ronald L. Batory before the
            American Public Transportation Association Rail Conference

            As Prepared Remarks of Ronald L. Batory Swearing-In Ceremony as
            the 14th Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration

        It is possible there were other presentations but I do not have a
    record of any others.
        19. List all public statements you have made during the past ten
    years, including statements in news articles and radio and television
    appearances, which are on topics relevant to the position for which you
    have been nominated, including dates. Include a link to each statement
    when possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of
    the statement when available.

            Remarks of FRA Administrator Ronald L. Batory to before the
            Association of State Rail Safety Managers https://
            railroads.dot.gov/newsroom/speeches/remarks-fra-administrator-
            ronald-l-batory-association-state-rail-safety-managers

            Prepared Remarks for Administrator Ronald L. Batory before the
            American Public Transportation Association Rail Conference
            https://railroads.dot.gov/speeches/prepared-remarks-
            administrator-ronald-l-batory-american-puplic-transportation-
            association

            As Prepared Remarks of Ronald L. Batory Swearing-In Ceremony as
            the 14th Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration
            https://railroads.dot.gov
            /speeches/prepared-remarks-ronald-l-batory-swearing-ceremony-
            14th-administrator-federal-railroad

        It is possible there were other public statements but I do not have
    a record of any others.
        20. List all digital platforms (including social media and other
    digital content sites) on which you currently or have formerly operated
    an account, regardless of whether or not the account was held in your
    name or an alias. Include the full name of an ``alias'' or ``handle'',
    including the complete URL and username with hyperlinks, you have used
    on each of the named platforms. Indicate whether the account is active,
    deleted, or dormant. Include a link to each account if possible.

            LinkedIn--active. Link to profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/
            honorable-ronald-l-batory-276926121/

        21. Please identify each instance in which you have testified
    orally or in writing before Congress in a governmental or non-
    governmental capacity and specify the date and subject matter of each
    testimony.
        I do not have records or recall details, but I believe I testified
    two or three times before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and
    Transportation; and one or two times before the House Transportation
    and Infrastructure Subcommittee.
        22. Given the current mission, major programs, and major
    operational objectives of the department/agency to which you have been
    nominated, what in your background or employment experience do you
    believe affirmatively qualifies you for appointment to the position for
    which you have been nominated, and why do you wish to serve in that
    position?
        Vast business experiences accumulated over 50+ years. Brings
    integrity, leadership experience and a commitment to Amtrak.
        23. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to
    ensure that the department/agency has proper management and accounting
    controls, and what experience do you have in managing a large
    organization?
        Monitor business controls and functions. Ensure bylaws are
    fulfilled in governing the business. Mentor, evaluate and challenge
    management, as related to the mission statement of the enterprise and
    objectives set forth by Congress. (1) Executing a consistent tactical
    plan with the least amount of variability. This will strengthen safety,
    breed capacity and foster efficiency. (2) Develop a realistic strategic
    plan that can be delivered with practicality while being favored with a
    sense of urgency. This will harden and improve justified changes to the
    national intercity rail passenger network and heighten the credibility
    of the enterprise. (3) Emphasizing the importance of spending money
    wisely and not letting opinion overshadow facts. Holding senior
    management leadership to their accountable responsibilities will favor
    the outcomes of change while benefiting the corporate culture.
        24. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the
    department/agency, and why?

      1.  Fulfill all legislative requirements as directed to Amtrak.
            Accomplishment will further strengthen the credibility of the
            national rail passenger carrier going forward when new
            initiatives and objectives are being sought by Congress.

      2.  Continually demonstrate a leadership role towards safety and
            environmental stewardship in the transport sector. Sustainable
            accomplishment is of utmost importance as it relates to all
            people and communities associated with Amtrak's national
            presence.

      3.  Expansion of organization and its ongoing transformation in
            recognition of the added role of responsibilities and
            accountabilities being bestowed on Amtrak in the primary areas
            of capital investment and network expansion. This challenge
            will continue into the foreseeable future and will become
            precedent setting for Amtrak reputation. Readily recognizing
            lessons learned and adoption of best practices are key
            ingredients towards developing a nimble and maturing
            organization capable of delivering responsible actions in
            conjunction to its mission.
                       b. potential conflicts of interest
        1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation
    agreements, and other continuing dealings with business associates,
    clients, or customers. Please include information related to retirement
    accounts, such as a 40l(k) or pension plan.
        Defined benefit plan associated with former employment with Grand
    Trunk Western Railroad and Conrail and administered by Northern Trust.
        2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or informal,
    to maintain employment, affiliation, or practice with any business,
    association, or other organization during your appoin1ment? If so,
    please explain.
        I expect to continue my roles with the following entities, all of
    which are disclosed on my Form 450: Anacostia Rail Holdings, RJ Corman,
    Michigan State University, Hanson Professional Services, Herzog
    Railroad Services, Arkansas & Missouri Railroad, Iowa Northern Railway,
    Kansas City Southern, East Broad Top Railroad, Center for Railroad
    Photography & Art, RailPulse, Historic Pullman Foundation.
        3. Indicate any inves1ments, obligations, liabilities, or other
    relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in
    the position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will
    resolve each potential conflict of interest.
        As listed above and in my Form 450 Financial Disclosure Report, I
    remain active with several entities involved in the railroad industry
    and I continue to participate in two defined benefit plans from my
    prior employment with Conrail and Western Trunk Railroad. I do not
    believe any of these relationships presents a conflict of interest.
    However, if an actual or apparent or potential conflict were to arise,
    I would consult with Amtrak's Ethics Officer and follow their advice
    regarding recusal or any other recommended mitigations.
        4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial
    transaction which you have had during the last ten years, whether for
    yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in
    any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the
    position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will resolve
    each potential conflict of interest.
        As listed above and in my Form 450 Financial Disclosure Report, I
    remain active with several entities involved in the railroad industry
    and I continue to participate in two defined benefit plans from my
    prior employment with Conrail and Western Trunk Railroad. I do not
    believe any of these relationships presents a conflict of interest.
    However, if an actual or apparent or potential conflict were to arise,
    I would consult with Amtrak's Ethics Officer and follow their advice
    regarding recusal or any other recommended mitigations.
        5. Identify any other potential conflicts of interest, and explain
    how you will resolve each potential conflict of interest. None.
        6. Describe any activity during the past ten years, including the
    names of clients represented, in which you have been engaged for the
    purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the passage, defeat, or
    modification of any legislation or affecting the administration and
    execution of law or public policy. None.
                                c. legal matters
        1. Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics,
    professional misconduct, or retaliation by, or been the subject of a
    complaint to, any court, administrative agency, the Office of Special
    Counsel, an Inspector General, professional association, disciplinary
    committee, or other professional group? None. If yes:

      a.  Provide the name of court, agency, association, committee, or
            group;

      b.  Provide the date the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
            personnel action was issued or initiated;

      c.  Describe the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
            personnel action;

      d.  Provide the results of the citation, disciplinary action,
            complaint, or personnel action.

        2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by
    any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal,
    State, county, or municipal entity, other than for a minor traffic
    offense? If so, please explain. No.
        3. Have you or any business or nonprofit of which you are or were
    an officer ever been involved as a party in an administrative agency
    proceeding, criminal proceeding, or civil litigation? If so, please
    explain.
        I have never been named in any litigation.
        4. Have you ever been convicted (including pleas of guilty or nolo
    contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic
    offense? If so, please explain. None.
        5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual
    harassment or discrimination on the basis of sex, race, religion, or
    any other basis? If so, please explain. None.
        6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information,
    favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in
    connection with your nomination. None.
                         d. relationship with committee
        1. Will you ensure that your department/agency complies with
    deadlines for information set by congressional committees, and that
    your department/agency endeavors to timely comply with requests for
    information from individual Members of Congress, including requests
    from members in the minority? Yes.
        2. Will you ensure that your department/agency does whatever it can
    to protect congressional witnesses and whistleblowers from reprisal for
    their testimony and disclosures? Yes.
        3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested
    witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with
    firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee? Yes.
        4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly
    constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may be
    reasonably requested to do so? Yes.
                                     ______

                                RONALD L. BATORY
                            Resume of Qualifications
                             SUMMARY OF EXPERIENCE:
       Career professional with more than 45 years of both line and
            staff experience in the railroad industry serving in various
            administrative and operational leadership positions of
            considerable responsibility.
       Effective senior-level management abilities in leading
            change and maximizing use of organizational talent.
       Expertise in planning, analysis and control of costs to
            enhance contribution of revenue, as well as achieving revenue
            growth through exploitation of commercial opportunities.
        Additional skills: planning and conducting cost/performance
    rationalization studies from concept; coordinating the implementation
    of both operating and maintenance improvement programs.
                                CAREER JOURNAL:
    CONSOLIDATED RAIL CORPORATION
    1998/2017
    President and Chief Operating Officer
        Complete leadership responsibility for the eighth (8th) largest
    freight rail earner in the United States. Ensures fulfillment of a
    business enterprise with a unique corporate structure within the
    deregulated transportation sector.
    Senior Vice President--Qperations
        Reporting responsibility for the planning, operation and
    maintenance of the Shared Assets Areas in New Jersey. Pennsylvania and
    Michigan. Constitutes the largest terminal switching operation in North
    America evolving from the acquisition and division of Consolidated Rail
    Corporation by CSX Transportation and Norfolk Southern Corporation.
        Guided a post-split operation of continuous improvement wherein
    safety, service and costs indicators are recognized to be historically
    record setting for the associated territories.

    THE BELT RAILWAY COMPANY OF CHICAGO
    1994/1998
    President--Bedford Park, Illinois
        Complete leadership responsibility for the largest intermediate
    switching company in the Nation serving a terminal network of seventeen
    (17) rail carriers. Instituted policies and practices that lead to an
    array of unprecedented safety and service performance records, while
    simultaneously undertaking a massive infrastructure improvement plan.

    SOUTHERN PACIFIC TRANSPORTATION COMPANY
    1989/1994
    General Manager--Chicago, Illinois
        Reporting responsibility for field operations on the Midwest Region
    which spanned a territory from Chicago, Illinois, to Tucumcari, New
    Mexico, on the west to Shreveport, Louisiana, and Texarkana, Texas, on
    the east. Served as General Manager, SPCSL Corp., a wholly owned
    subsidiary of Southern Pacific Transportation Company. Represented St.
    Louis Southwestern Railway as a Board of Director member for the Kansas
    City Terminal Railway Company, Terminal Railroad Association of St.
    Louis, Southern Illinois and Missouri Bridge Company and Arkansas &
    Memphis Railway Bridge and Terminal Company.
    Assistant General Manager--Chicago, Illinois
        Reporting responsibility to Central Region, which spanned a
    territory between Chicago and East St. Louis, Illinois, on the east to
    Sparks, Nevada, and Klamath Falls, Oregon, on the west. Served as
    primary Operating Department planner and directed implementation for
    Southern Pacific's access in Chicago, Illinois. from both East St.
    Louis, Illinois, and Kansas City, Kansas, in l989 and 1990
    respectively.

    CHICAGO, MISSOURI & WESTERN RAILWAY
    1987/1989
    Vice President/General Manager--Springfield, Illinois
    Directed system transportation, maintenance, intermodat purchasing,
    security and corporate relations organizational functions, as related
    to the daily operation of both freight and Amtrak passenger trains
    transversing over 600 route miles.
    Included Board of Director responsibility to Kansas City Terminal
    Railway Company. Maintained ongoing communications with appropriate
    lobbying bodies and state/federal regulatory agencies, which favored
    the Trustee's endeavors to successfully obtain nearly $14 million in
    low interest loans and grants. Formulated an asset disposition plan for
    the Trustee, which resulted in all rail lines being conveyed to
    responsible parties, thus avoiding the path of service discontinuances
    and subsequent liquidation.

    GRAND TRUNK WESTERN RAILROAD COMPANY
    1981/1987 (Various Locations)
    Director Transportation Planning--Detroit, Michigan
    Directed the manifest freight scheduling and classification
    requirements for all yards and terminals. Implemented a terminal
    management information system through use of electronic data
    processing. Developed and coordinated joint operating improvement
    projects with various connecting carriers throughout the four state
    system.
    District Manager Operations/Chicago--Chicago, Illinois
        Managed major territorial operations of Chicago District. Ensured
    consistent service and cost-effective operations through coordination
    of transportation, intermodal, mechanical, engineering, administrative
    and joint facility functions necessary to meet committed commercial
    specifications.
    Terminal Manager, Chicago Terminal District--Chicago, Illinois
        Managed the scheduled movement of road trains and yard operations.
    Using a diversity of management skills, ensured cost effective
    productivity levels. Simultaneously rationalized entire terminal
    operations through expanded use of joint facilities, thereby reducing
    fixed costs. Overall reduction and consolidations resulted in a net
    decrease in annual operating costs by $7.8 million along with
    eliminating future capital requirements of considerable sort.
    Trainmaster, Shore Line Subdivision--Toledo, Ohio

    Management responsibility for daily train, yard and dispatching
    operations of the former Detroit and Toledo Shore Line Railroad
    Company. During tenure, recommended, developed and implemented a highly
    successful operating plan to curtail hump switching, car repair and
    locomotive servicing at Lang Yard, Toledo, Ohio, while consolidating
    the train dispatching office with those in Pontiac, Michigan, which
    created a $4.3 million reduction in operating expenses and minimized
    the overall need for further capita] improvement among the affected
    facilities.

    Transportation Supervisor, Detroit Division--Pontiac, Michigan

    Managed and monitored divisional operations of road trains and SEMTA
    commuter trains ensuring commercial freight standards and public
    transit commitments were met. Coordinated over the road line operations
    in the Detroit, Michigan, area for all newly created inter-divisional
    trains resulting from the acquisition of Detroit and Toledo Shore Line
    Railroad Company and Detroit, Toledo & Ironton Railroad Company.

    DETROIT, TOLEDO & IRONTON RAILROAD COMPANY
    1971/1981 (Various Locations)
    Director of Material Procurement and Planning--Dearborn, Michigan

        Administered purchasing, material distribution, industrial
    engineering and capital budget functions consistent with corporate
    requirements. Successfully developed and implemented a totally operable
    and accountable post-merger system for consolidating and standardizing
    materials and supplies once recognized independently by three
    railroads.

    Manager, Industrial Engineering--Dearborn, Michigan

    Successfully developed standard measurement systems for various
    operating sub-departments. These productivity measurements were later
    used to develop a powerful management tool for both line and. staff
    personnel. Designed and monitored the operating plan for accessing
    Cincinnati, Ohio, for interchange with the former Southern Railway
    Company and Louisville and Nashville Railroad Company over trackage
    rights of Consolidated Rail Corporation as set forth by the United
    States Railway Association.

    Assistant Engineer Track System--Flat Rock, Michigan

    Responsible for the production results of out-of-face maintenance
    programs. Assisted in cost and method planning/analysis of all
    maintenance and capital programs. Designated to conduct Federal
    Railroad Administration inspections to comply with minimum track safety
    standards.

    Administrative Assistant to Vice President of Operations--Dearborn,
    Michigan

    Responsible for accurate formulation of operating and capital budgets
    as related for the entire Operating Department. Performed numerous
    operational planning studies for management review.

    Traveling Auditor, Car Accounting--Dearborn, Michigan

    Designed operational audit procedures, which applied to the mileage
    portion of car hire payments reported by foreign line carriers.

    Participated in the development and implementation of an E.D.P. system
    for generating car hire reclaims covering both switching and storage.

    EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
    Master of Arts Degree:
    Graduate, Eastern Michigan University in 1975, Ypsilanti, Michigan
    Bachelor of Arts Degree: Business Administration & Economics
    Graduate, Adrian College in 1971, Adrian, Michigan

    CONTINUING EDUCATION/TRAINING:

    Canadian National Genera] Management Program, completed through
    Bishop's University, Lennoxville, Quebec, 1981

    IBM Executive Seminar, 1979

    Purchasing and Material Management Seminar through General Motors
    Corporation, Electro-Motive Division 1978

    Freight Car Air Brakes Seminar through Wabco, Westinghouse Air Brake
    Division, 1975

    Transportation Seminar through Genera] Motors Corporation, Electro-
    Motive Division, 1974

        The Chair. Thank you, Mr. Batory. And we will get to that
    in a minute, but we have one more nominee here. Ms. Clegg,
    thank you for your willingness to serve. We look forward to
    your comments.

      STATEMENT OF ELAINE CLEGG, NOMINEE TO BE A DIRECTOR, AMTRAK
                           BOARD OF DIRECTORS

        Ms. Clegg. Thank you. Chair Cantwell, Ranking Member
    Schmitt, members of the Committee, thank you for inviting me to
    appear before you today. My name is Elaine Clegg, and I am
    deeply honored to be nominated to join the Amtrak Board of
    Directors. I am a resident of Boise, Idaho, and an Idaho
    native.
        I grew up loving train travel, traveling by train to Boise
    every summer while my family lived in Denver. My mother's
    family moved to Idaho by train and even lived in a boxcar on a
    site in a fledgling logging community.
        Idaho has been the fastest growing U.S. state for most of
    the past decade and is part of the Mountain West region, the
    fastest growing region in the country. The Mountain West has
    harsh winters, often closing roads, an aging population, and
    nearly 20 million people who experience lower levels of Amtrak
    and other public transportation services than found elsewhere
    in the country despite very long travel distances.
        If confirmed, I will provide a Western point of view on our
    Nation's railroad needs. My advocacy for better public
    transportation is accompanied by 20 years of experience
    overseeing public services for a City of over 230,000 residents
    as a member of the Boise City Council, where my primary focus
    was on land use and transportation planning and policy.
        I also chaired the National League of Cities Transportation
    and Infrastructure Services Committee and have served on
    numerous boards of city and professional organizations across
    the country. Before serving on the City Council, I spent 15
    years running a small business, then working for a nonprofit
    organization, all while raising five children and finishing my
    college degree.
        Since February of last year, I have been the CEO of Valley
    Regional Transit, where I previously served as a Board and
    Executive Board Member and Chair. Valley Regional Transit
    provides fixed rail bus service throughout the Boise
    metropolitan region, serving over a million riders annually.
        We recently introduced a revised bus network that offers
    better service while improving cost efficiencies in our
    operations. The only Amtrak services in the Mountain West are
    for long distance routes that skirt the edges of the region and
    operate once a day or less. There is no service at all in the
    heart of the inland Northwest.
        Boise has one of the most beautiful train stations in the
    country, but it has been without a passenger train since the
    Pioneer, a long distance train from Seattle through Denver to
    Chicago, was discontinued in 1997. Today, Idaho's only Amtrak
    train is the Empire Builder, stopping at a single station in a
    remote panhandle community in the middle of the night.
        Idaho, like other mountain states, has little airline
    service outside the Boise region with very little air service
    and very sparse intercity bus elsewhere. Those of us who live
    in the Mountain West need passenger rail and other ways to
    travel.
        People move to our region for the lifestyle, yet because of
    the lack of transportation offerings, they are finding their
    new home means a lot of long distance driving on difficult
    roads, even in bad weather.
        One of my longstanding goals has been to bring more Amtrak
    service back to the Northwest. I helped to organize the Greater
    Northwest Passenger Rail Working Group, whose vision is to
    develop a multimodal, connected transportation network anchored
    by passenger rail.
        We worked on the Corridor Identification Program
    applications to the FRA such as from Boise to Salt Lake City
    and participated in the FRA long distance service study
    required by the IIJA. I am excited the former Pioneer route is
    one of the routes included in FRA's proposed long distance
    expansion.
        I am a problem solver who recognizes the importance of
    collaboration, creative ideas, planning, setting priorities,
    and managing lean budgets. I work by bringing those ideas and a
    fresh perspective and working transparently with the public and
    decisionmakers so all have a voice and ownership in the way
    forward.
        The United States was built on opportunity for all. We need
    more travel options, particularly for those who are aging,
    disabled, or unable to drive or fly, and especially in our
    small communities and rural areas. Without the train that
    brought my grandparents to Idaho, they would not have had the
    same opportunities.
        Without trains and other travel modes, many Americans today
    can't take advantage of the opportunities that would otherwise
    improve their lives. If confirmed, I will continue to bring--
    work to bring passenger rail to the places that don't have
    service today and will provide a Western point of view on the
    Amtrak Board.
        Thank you for your time. Happy to answer any questions.
        [The prepared statement and biographical information of Ms.
    Clegg follow:]

         Prepared Statement of Elaine Clegg, Nominee to be a Director,
                           Amtrak Board of Directors
        Chair Cantwell, Ranking Member Cruz, members of the Committee:
    Thank you for inviting me to appear before you today. My name is Elaine
    Clegg, and I'm deeply honored to have been nominated to join the Amtrak
    Board of Directors.
        I'm a resident of Boise, Idaho, and an Idaho native. I grew up
    loving train travel, traveling by train to Boise every summer while my
    family lived in Denver. My mother's family moved to Idaho by train and
    even lived in a boxcar on a siding for seven years as part of a
    fledgling logging community.
        Idaho has been the fastest growing U.S. state for most of the past
    decade and is part of the Mountain West Region--the fastest growing
    region in the country. The Mountain West has harsh winters that often
    close roads, an aging population and nearly 20 million people who
    experience lower levels of Amtrak and other public transportation
    services than found elsewhere in the country despite long travel
    distances. If confirmed, I will provide a Western point of view on our
    Nation's rail needs.
        My advocacy for better public transportation is accompanied by
    twenty years of experience overseeing public services for a city with
    over 230,000 residents as a member of the Boise City Council, where my
    primary focus was in land use and transportation. I also chaired the
    National League of Cities' Transportation and Infrastructure Services
    Committee and have served on numerous boards of city and professional
    organizations across the country. Before serving on the city council, I
    spent 15 years running a small business, then working for a non-profit
    organization, all while raising five children and finishing my college
    degree.
        Since February of last year, I have been the CEO of Valley Regional
    Transit, where I previously served as a Board and Executive Board
    member and chair. Valley Regional Transit provides fixed route bus
    service throughout the Boise metropolitan area, serving over a million
    riders annually. We recently introduced a revised bus network offering
    better service while improving cost efficiencies in our operations.
        The only Amtrak services in the Mountain West are four long-
    distance routes that skirt the edges of the region and operate once a
    day or less. There is no service at all in the heart of the inland
    northwest. Boise has one of the most beautiful train stations in the
    country, but it has been without a passenger train since the Pioneer, a
    long-distance train from Seattle through Denver to Chicago, was
    discontinued in 1997. Today, Idaho's only Amtrak train is the Empire
    Builder, stopping at a single station in a remote panhandle community
    in the middle of the night. Idaho, like other Mountain states, has
    little airline service outside of the Boise region, with very little
    air service and very sparse inter-city bus elsewhere.
        Those of us who live in the Mountain West want and need passenger
    rail and other ways to travel. People move to our region to for the
    lifestyle, yet, because of the lack of transportation options, what
    they are finding in their new home is a lot of long-distance driving on
    difficult roads--even in bad weather.
        One of my long-standing goals has been to bring more Amtrak service
    back to the Northwest. I helped organize the Greater Northwest
    Passenger Rail Working Group whose vision is to develop a multimodal,
    connected transportation network anchored by passenger rail. We worked
    on Corridor Identification Program applications to the Federal Railroad
    Administration, such as from Boise to Salt Lake City, and participated
    in the FRA-led Long-Distance Service Study required by the
    Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. I am excited the former Pioneer
    route through Boise is one of the routes to be included in FRA's
    proposed Amtrak long-distance service expansion.
        I am a problem solver who recognizes the importance of
    collaboration, good planning, setting priorities, and managing lean
    budgets. I work by bringing creative ideas, a fresh perspective and
    working transparently with the public and decision makers so all have a
    voice and ownership in a way forward that everyone can get behind.
        The United States was built on opportunity for all. We need more
    travel options, particularly for those who are aging, disabled, are
    unable to fly or drive, and especially in our small communities and
    rural areas. Without the train that brought my grandparents to Idaho
    they would not have had the same opportunities. Without trains and
    other travel modes many Americans today can't take advantage of the
    opportunities that would otherwise improve their lives.
        If confirmed as a member of Amtrak's Board, I will continue to work
    to bring passenger rail service to the places where it doesn't exist
    today and will provide a Western point of view and experience that the
    Amtrak Board needs.
        I thank you for your time and will be happy to answer any questions
    you may have.
                                     ______

                          a. biographical information
        1. Name (Include any former names or nicknames used): Elaine Marie
    Clegg, Elaine Marie Godfrey (maiden name).
        2. Position to which nominated: Amtrak (National Passenger Rail
    Corporation) Board of Directors.
        3. Date of Nomination: May 2, 2024.
        4. Address (List current place of residence and office addresses):

            Residence: Information not released to the public.
            Office: 700 NE 2nd Street, Meridian, ID 83642

        5. Date and Place of Birth: April 5, 1955; Boise, Ada County, ID.
        6. Provide the name, position, and place of employment for your
    spouse (if married) and the names and ages of your children (including
    stepchildren and children by a previous marriage).

            Brett Wynn Clegg, Jacobs Solutions Inc.; April Lynette Truax,
            43 years old; Zachariah Brett Clegg, 41 years old; Dominique
            Nichole Oakley, 40 years old; Kelsie Anne Clegg, 35 years old;
            Whitney Dawn Clegg, 33 years old.

        7. List all college and graduate schools attended, whether or not
    you were granted a degree by the institution. Provide the name of the
    institution, the dates attended, the degree received, and the date of
    the degree.

            Boise State University, Boise, ID, 1973-1977, 1996-1997
            B.A., Fine Arts, Painting and Drawing Emphasis
            Graduated 1997, Cum Laude.

        List all post-undergraduate employment, including the job title,
    name of employer, and inclusive dates of employment, and highlight all
    management-level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to
    the position for which you are nominated.

            2023 to present
            Chief Executive Officer
            Valley Regional Transit
            Ada and Canyon Counties, HQ Meridian, ID

            2004-2023
            City Council Member Seat 5
            City Council President or Pro-Tem 2005-2006, 2015-2023
            City Of Boise
            Boise, ID

            2004-2023
            Program Manager
            Idaho Smart Growth
            Boise, ID

            2013, 2020-2022
            Interim Executive Director
            Idaho Smart Growth
            Boise, ID

            1998-2003
            Co-Executive Director
            Idaho Smart Growth
            Boise, ID

            1992-1998
            Local Ad Program Advertising Designer
            PayLess Drug Stores
            District 7, Boise, ID

            1993-1998
            Weekend Bookkeeper
            PayLess Drug Stores
            District 7, Boise, ID

            1979-1992
            Self Employed--Graphic Design, Fine Art
            Boise, ID

        9. Attach a copy of your resume. Attached
        10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time
    service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other
    than those listed above after 18 years of age.

       Idaho Lands Resource Coordinating Council, Idaho Department
            of Lands, 2013-2023, Council member

       City of Boise, Arts and History Commission, 2004-2011,
            Commissioner

       Idaho Transportation Department, Safe Routes to School
            Advisory Committee (SRTS), committee member 2004-2013

       City of Boise, Neighborhood Alliance, city advisory
            committee 1988-2002

       City of Boise, Foothills Planning Advisory Committee,
            Neighborhood Chair, 1992-1996

        11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee,
    partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any
    corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise,
    educational, or other institution.

        Service as National Board and Advisory Committee member

       The Bus Coalition, Board member, 2023 to present

       The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) High
            Speed and Inter-City Passenger Rail Committee member 2023 to
            present

       National League of Cities (NLC) 2009-2023--Board member 2022

       NLC Transportation and Infrastructure Service Committee
            leadership 2015-2022, Chair 2022

       Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations (AMPO),
            2009-2019--Board member, President 2015-2017

       Surface Transportation Policy Partnership, 2006-2019, Board
            member, Secretary 2016-2019

       Transportation for America, 2011-2015 Advisory Committee

        Regional/State Board member positions;

       Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho (COMPASS),
            2004 to present--Board Chair 2020, Executive Committee 2017-
            2023

       The Treasure Valley Clean cities Coalition, Board member
            2023 to present

       Valley Regional Transit (VRT) 2006-2023 Board Chair 2014 and
            2018

       Association of Idaho Cities 2006-2023, Executive Committee
            2016-2023, Board President 2019

       Idaho the Association for the Gifted, Board Member, 1994-
            2003, Board Chair 2002

        12. Please list each membership you have had after 18 years of age
    or currently hold with any civic, social, charitable, educational,
    political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or religiously
    affiliated organization, private club, or other membership
    organization. (For this question, you do not have to list your
    religious affiliation or membership in a religious house of worship or
    institution.). Include dates of membership and any positions you have
    held with any organization. Please note whether any such club or
    organization restricts membership on the basis of sex, race, color,
    religion, national origin, age, or disability.

       North End Neighborhood Association, Boise, ID, member, Board
            member, President 1985-89

       Parent Teacher Association, Longfellow Elementary school,
            1990-1995

       Silver Sage Girl Scout Council, Troop leader, 1995-1998

       North Boise Little League, coach,

       Idaho Smart Growth, Boise, ID, member, 1998 to present

       Idaho Walk Bike Alliance, Boise, ID, member, 2010 to present

       American Planning Association, Idaho Chapter, member 2012 to
            present

       Urban Land Institute, Idaho Chapter, member 2018 to present

       Treasure Valley Canopy Network, Treasure Valley, Boise, ID,
            member 2020 to present

       Women's Transportation Seminar, Southwest Idaho Chapter,
            member 2018-2020, 2023 to present

        13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held a public office
    (elected, non-elected, or appointed)? If so, indicate whether any
    campaign has any outstanding debt, the amount, and whether you are
    personally liable for that debt.

            2004-2023
            City Council Member Seat 5
            City Of Boise, Boise, ID
            Campaign account closed, no debt incurred

        14. List all memberships and offices held with and services
    rendered to, whether compensated or not, any political party or
    election committee within the past ten years. If you have held a paid
    position or served in a formal or official advisory position (whether
    compensated or not) in a political campaign within the past ten years,
    identify the particulars of the campaign, including the candidate, year
    of the campaign, and your title and responsibilities. None.
        15. Itemize all political contributions to any individual, campaign
    organization, political party, political action committee, or similar
    entity of $200 or more for the past ten years.

                    Candiate                                    Office                          Date         Amount

    Diana Lachiondo                          Ada County Commission                              6/18/2020    $200.00
    Lauren Mclean                            Mayor, City of Boise                                4/7/2023    $250.00
    Jimmy Hallyburton                        Boise City Council, Seat 3                         8/29/2023    $200.00
    Lauren Mclean                            Mayor, City of Boise                               8/29/2023    $250.00

        16. List all scholarships, fellowships, honorary degrees, honorary
    society memberships, military medals, and any other special recognition
    for outstanding service or achievements.

       City of Boise, Key to the City honoree, 2023

       Association of Idaho Cities, John Evans Distinguished
            Service award 2023

       Idaho Business Review Women of the Year 2020

       Boise State University Distinguished Alumni 2018

        17. List each book, article, column, letter to the editor, Internet
    blog posting, or other publication you have authored, individually or
    with others. Include a link to each publication when possible. If a
    link is not available, provide a digital copy of the publication when
    available.

            The Consequences of Residential Infill Development on Existing
            Neighborhoods in the Treasure Valley, a Study and Conclusions;
            https://www.idahosmartgrowth.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/
            uliisg_infill_
            report.pdf

            Find Presentation here: https://www.idahosmartgrowth.org/wp-
            content/up
            loads/2014/04/infill_forum_presentation.pdf

            Quality Infill Recommendations and Tools:
            https://www.idahosmartgrowth.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/
            quality_in
            fill_final1.pdf

            Find Presentation here: https://www.idahosmartgrowth.org/wp-
            content/up
            loads/2014/04/isg_quality_infill_presentation.pdf

            Smart Growth Best Practices, Putting Smart Growth Policy into
            Practice:
            https://www.idahosmartgrowth.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/
            smart_
            growth_best_practices_21.pdf

            Safe Routes to School Handbook of Best Practices:
            https://www.idahosmartgrowth.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/
            safe_routes_
            to_school_bp_final-compressed.pdf

            Appendix B--Community Reviews and Best Practice
            Recommendations:
            https://www.idahosmartgrowth.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/
            safe_routes_
            to_school_city_policy_review.pdf

            Model School District Policies in Support of Safe Routes to
            School:
            https://www.idahosmartgrowth.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/
            Model-
            School-Policies.pdf

            Code Reform--Model Codes

            Introduction: https://www.idahosmartgrowth.org/wp-content/
            uploads/2014/10
            /Introduction-to-zoning-for-smart-growth.pdf

            Comprehensive Planning Policies: https://
            www.idahosmartgrowth.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/
            Comprehensive-Planning-Policies-final.pdf

            Module 1, Mixed use Activity Centers: https://
            www.idahosmartgrowth.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Z2-
            Neighborhood-Market-Place-District-final.pdf

            Module 2, Neighborhood Marketplace District: https://
            www.idahosmartgrowth.org/
            wp-content/uploads/2014/10/ZI-Mixed-Use-Activity-Center-
            Zone-final.pdf

            Module 3, Accessory Dwelling Units: https://
            www.idahosmartgrowth.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Z3-
            Accessory-Dwelling-Units-final.pdf

            Module 4, Connectivity Standards: https://
            www.idahosmartgrowth.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Z4-
            Connectivity-Standards-final.pdf

        18. List all speeches, panel discussions, and presentations (e.g.,
    PowerPoint) that you have given on topics relevant to the position for
    which you have been nominated. Include a link to each publication when
    possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of the
    speech or presentation when available.

            9/15/2024  https://idahobusiness review.com/tag/idaho-
                        transportation/
            6/12/2024  https://www.cityofboise.org/news/parks-and-recreation/
                        2024/june/elaine-clegg-city-of-trees-challenge-
                        partners-celebrate-planting-235-000-forest-
             6/1/2024  https://etatransit.com/wall-of-love/
             4/1/2024  https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bvaboardroom/
                        episodes/Elaine-Clegg--BVA-Boardroom-Ep--15-e2hqqcg
            12/8/2023  https://www.aol.com/idaho-sought-amtrak-return-boise-
                        100000137.html
            7/23/2023  https://gemstatepatriot.com/blog/the-high-cost-of-
                        mass-transportation/
            5/15/2023  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eE0exGIVJjA
            4/24/2023  https://web.boisechamber.org/events/
                        2023leadership%20conference%20trains%20planes%20and%
                        20automobiles%20%20mobility %20in%20idaho%
            3/21/2023  https://www.webstergrovesmo.gov/DocumentCenter/View/
                        11796/MayorCouncil-Letter-on-Railroad-Safety
            3/14/2023  https://boisedev.com/news/2023/03/14/elaine-clegg-
                        final-council/
            1/10/2023  https://www.masstransitmag.com/management/press-
                        release/21292016/valley-regional-transit-vrt-valley-
                        regional-transit-board-
            9/27/2022  https://www.railwayage.com/passenger/transit-briefs-
                        metrolinx-amtrak-septa-mbta-wmata/
             9/5/2022  https://idahonews.com/news/local/boise-to-salt-lake-
                        passenger-rail-line
             6/9/2022  https://www.nlc.org/post/2022/06/09/boise-id-council-
                        president-testifies-before-congress-on-strengthening-
                        road-safety-in-communities/
             4/6/2022  https://www.apta.com/conferences-events/high-speed-
                        rail/2022-high-speed-rail-meeting-full-program/
            12/6/2021  https://www.nlc.org/post/2021/12/06/nlc-launches-
                        safety-first-challenge/
           10/10/2021  https://idwc.org/elaine-clegg-and-many-more/
            9/29/2021  https://idahobusinessreview.com/2021/09/29/
                        transportation-reps-city-officials-cut-ribbon-for-
                        new-electric-buses/
             8/8/2021  https://www.idahopress.com/community/life/tim-
                        woodward-bring-back-our-train-amtrak-s-pioneer/
                        article_f638e34a-72a3-5446-a6cd-
             8/5/2021  https://www.boisestatepublicradio.org/news/2021-08-05/
                        infrastructure-congress-amtrak-boise-idaho-pioneer-
                        route
             8/1/2021  https://woodwardblog.com/2021/08/
            6/13/2021  https://gorgenewscenter.com/2021/07/13/gorge-
                        commission-hears-proposal-to-resume-the-amtrak-
                        pioneer/#google_vignette
             6/7/2021  https://www.idahopress.com/news/local/passenger-
                        trains-at-the-boise-depot-city-council-hopes-to-
                        resurrect-amtrak-line/article_f17fa682-52e3-
           11/18/2020  https://boisedev.com/news/2020/11/18/ boise-mayor-
                        city-council-take-a-pass-on-pay-raises-for-2021/
           10/15/2020  https://www.climatehubs.usda.gov/hubs/northwest/topic/
                        reducing-urban-heat-through-tree-planting-boise
            4/24/2020  https://idahonews.com/news/local/city-of-boise-wants-
                        to-plan-100000-trees-over-the-next-10-years
            2/14/2020  https://boisedev.com/news/2020/02/14/elaine-clegg-
                        tree-city-challenge/
            11/5/2019  https://www.idaho press.com/news/local/clegg-holds-
                        seat-on-boise-city-council/article_ 21716568-0228-
                        5481-916f-5d660ac82bdd.html
             9/9/2019  https://nextcity.org/features/can-cities-ever-
                        eliminate-hunger
            6/24/2019  https://kemlu.go.id/sanfrancisco/en/news/1514/
                        courtesy-call-with-governor-of-idaho-and-council-
                        president-of-the-mayor-office-of-boise
           10/26/2018  https://www.boisestate.edu/news/2018/10/26/boise-
                        state-honors-boise-city-council-kustras-during-
                        homecoming-2018/
            5/16/2018  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtXKa6Os_q4
            12/1/2017  https://www.ptvermont.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/
                        publicbuildings.pdf
            11/1/2016  https://www.vpnaboise.org/2016/11/esther-simplot-park-
                        officially-opens/
             6/6/2016  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fRLtGrS0Jss
            9/15/2015  https://www.idahostatesman.com/news/politics-
                        government/election/article41569377.html
            6/16/2014  https://bikeleague.org/sites/default/files/Joint%
                        20USCM%20NLC%20Letter%20on%20Transportation
                        %20Alternatives %20Program.pdf
            1/30/2014  https://legislature.idaho.gov/ wp-content/uploads/
                        sessioninfo/ 2014/standingcommittees/ 140130_sedu_0
            1/19/2014  https://www.lmtribune.com/ northwest/skinny-houses-
                        are-big-in-boise/ article_c1c97c24-a251-5438-94aa-
                        0ea45cceb73f.html
            6/25/2013  https://www.pps.org/article/canceling-the-curve-a-
                        small-town-rightsizing-success-story
            12/8/2012  https://stateimpact.npr.org/idaho/2012/12/08/ idaho-
                        county-and-city-leaders-brace-for-personal-property-
                        tax-debate/
             6/5/2012  https://smartgrowthamerica.org/councilmember-elaine-
                        clegg-on-boise-idahos-blueprint-for-success/
             6/6/2011  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7q8SRmd0iow

        19. List all public statements you have made during the past ten
    years, including statements in news articles and radio and television
    appearances, which are on topics relevant to the position for which you
    have been nominated, including dates. Include a link to each statement
    when possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of
    the statement when available.

                                                       Question 19

        Date          Type          Location             Statement                   Link               Additional

       9/21/2015  Speech        Campaign         Standing before a group   https://
                                                  of supporters at the      garyerichardson.com/
                                                  Boise Depot, Clegg       2015/09/21/elaine-clegg-
                                                  noted that she has been   cites-boise-successes-
                                                  pushing for a multi-      and-work-yet-to-be-done-
                                                  modal freight system      in-announcing-re-
                                                  ``that will include       election-campaign/
                                                  using this great rail
                                                  system that we have
                                                  right behind us, and
                                                  figuring out a way to
                                                  move freight from truck
                                                  to rail and rail to
                                                  truck and utilizinga
                                                  great airport that
                                                  could also be part of
                                                  this freight-movement
                                                  system.''
       9/29/2016  Conference    National Summit  A national convention     https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/
                                 on               about how                 policy/otps/
                                 Transportation   transportation connects  nsto_symposium_white_pap
                                 and              people to                 er_final.pdf
                                 Opportunity      opportunities.
                                                  Participant: Elaine
                                                  Clegg.
       9/11/2020  Conference    Virtual          ITS 202 Annual Meeting    https://www.ite.org/      Photo Attached
                   Panel                          and Exhibition            events-meetings/ite-
                                                                           virtual-annual-meeting-
                                                                            and-exhibition/program/
       9/17/2020  Conference    Montana          On Thursday, September    https://
                                 Passenger Rail   17, over 300 people       montanapassengerrailsum
                                 Summit           from around the state,   mit.org/summit/2020/
                                                  region, and country
                                                  gathered virtually for
                                                  the inaugural Montana
                                                  Passenger Rail Summit.
                                                  Summit attendees
                                                  included elected
                                                  officials, business
                                                  leaders, students,
                                                  passenger rail experts,
                                                  environmental
                                                  organizations, public
                                                  health experts, and
                                                  transportation
                                                  enthusiasts. Speaker:
                                                  Elaine Clegg.
       9/17/2020  Conference    Montana Rail     Connecting the U.S.
                  Presentation   Passengers
                                 Summit
       9/18/2020  Article       Missoula         ``If we were able to      https://
                                 Current          reestablish such a        missoulacurrent.com/
                                                  system, I think the       restore-
                                                  Intermountain West       passenger-rail/
                                                  wouldn't be nearly as
                                                  isolated as it is today
                                                  in the national
                                                  economy,'' Clegg said.
                                                  ``We'd love to see an
                                                  opportunity to
                                                  establish an inter-
                                                  state regional rail
                                                  commission in this
                                                  region. If we could
                                                  look at this as a
                                                  region and really look
                                                  at the connections
                                                  between Seattle and
                                                  Salt Lake, and
                                                  Pocatello and various
                                                  parts of Montana, we
                                                  could establish a good
                                                  system of connectivity
                                                  throughout the
                                                  Northwest region.''
       1/23/2021  Panel         Oregon           Connecting Communities                              Agenda Doc
                  Discussion     Passenger Rail                                                       attached
                                 Summit:
                                 Connecting
                                 Communities
       6/22/2021  Article       Boise Dev        ``We know that people in  https://boisedev.com/
                                                  eastern Oregon and        news/2021/06/
                                                  across southern Idaho    22/amtrak-idaho-clegg-
                                                  want to get to Boise      crapo/
                                                  for various services
                                                  like healthcare,
                                                  financial reasons and
                                                  various government
                                                  services and we know
                                                  that the weather in
                                                  this region isn't
                                                  really conducive to
                                                  driving year round,''
                                                  Clegg said. ``For me,
                                                  the first important
                                                  reason (Amtrak service
                                                  matters) is that it
                                                  connects this region
                                                  which is a culturally
                                                  similar region in a way
                                                  that allows people to
                                                  get to the services
                                                  they need even if they
                                                  can't drive, which lots
                                                  of people can't do
                                                  anymore.''
       7/13/2021  Presentation  Series of        Rail Coordination in the  https://                  typical ppt
                                 meeting          Northwest--typical        gorgenewscenter.com/      attached
                                 presentations    presentation, to          2021/07/
                                 on behalf of     Columbia Gorge           13/gorge-commission-
                                 the Greater      Commission, Wyoming       hears-proposal-to-
                                 Northwest        MPO's, Association of    resume-the-amtrak-
                                 Passenger Rail   Idaho Cities, eastern     pioneer/
                                 Working Group    Oregon cities, and more
       7/19/2021  Article       Idaho Statesman  For six years growing up  https://
                                                  in Denver, Elaine Clegg   www.idahostatesman.com/
                                                  boarded a train with      news/
                                                  her mother and sisters   local/traffic/
                                                  to spend the summer in    article252757533.html
                                                  Boise. ``I loved it,''
                                                  said Clegg, who was
                                                  first elected to the
                                                  Boise City Council in
                                                  2003 and now serves as
                                                  its president, in a
                                                  phone interview. ``It
                                                  was so much fun.''
                                                  Clegg and other
                                                  passenger train
                                                  advocates would like to
                                                  see the Pioneer
                                                  restored.
       7/19/2021  Article       Idaho Statesman  A bill in the U.S.        https://
                                                  Senate calls on Amtrak    www.idahostatesman.com/
                                                  to study the Pioneer      news/
                                                  route and three other    local/traffic/
                                                  abandoned passenger       article252757533.html
                                                  rail routes. ``We're
                                                  pretty confident it
                                                  will make it through
                                                  the Senate,'' said
                                                  Clegg, who serves on
                                                  the transportation
                                                  infrastructure
                                                  committee of the
                                                  National League of
                                                  Cities. Through that
                                                  position, Clegg said
                                                  she was able to speak
                                                  personally with
                                                  Transportation
                                                  Secretary Pete
                                                  Buttigieg and share her
                                                  views. ``He's very well
                                                  aware of it, very
                                                  supportive, as are two
                                                  undersecretaries who
                                                  we've met with numerous
                                                  times,'' Clegg said.
       7/19/2021  Article       Idaho Statesman  ``I think there's a       https://
                                                  recognition that the      www.idahostatesman.com/
                                                  rest of the world         news/
                                                  enjoys much better       local/traffic/
                                                  choice in how to get      article252757533.html
                                                  around their country
                                                  because they make this
                                                  investment, and maybe
                                                  it's worth doing so
                                                  here,'' Clegg said.
                                                  Clegg also belongs to
                                                  the Greater Northwest
                                                  Passenger Rail Working
                                                  Group, a loosely knit
                                                  group of train
                                                  advocates who have been
                                                  meeting for the last
                                                  year to return
                                                  intercity rail service
                                                  in the Northwest. ``We
                                                  think this is a part of
                                                  the country that's much
                                                  underserved by rail,
                                                  and there's a lot of
                                                  economic and
                                                  environmental benefits
                                                  if we can re-establish
                                                  passenger rail in the
                                                  region,'' Clegg said
                                                  Tuesday during a
                                                  presentation to the
                                                  Columbia River Gorge
                                                  Commission.
       7/19/2021  Article       Idaho Statesman  Resurrecting the Pioneer  https://
                                                  run would prove           www.idahostatesman.com/
                                                  successful, Clegg said.   news/
                                                  ``I think people would   local/traffic/
                                                  ride it and it would      article252757533.html
                                                  bring great benefit
                                                  economically,'' she
                                                  said.
       7/19/2021  Article       Idaho Statesman  Clegg hopes that the      https://
                                                  Pioneer route could       www.idahostatesman.com/
                                                  figure into Amtrak's      news/local/
                                                  plan. Amtrak hasn't      traffic/
                                                  commented on the          article252757533.html
                                                  efforts. ``I can't say
                                                  Amtrak is opposed to
                                                  what we're doing, but
                                                  if there's anyone that
                                                  we've gotten pushback
                                                  from, it's them,'' she
                                                  said. ``I believe
                                                  that's because they
                                                  don't think they're
                                                  going to have the
                                                  resources to do this.''
      11/14/2021  Conference    2021 Fall Idaho  She also touched upon     https://idwc.org/elaine-
                                 Democratic       the future of rail        clegg-and-many-
                                 Women's Caucus   including Amtrak and     more/
                                 Breakfast        her efforts to bring
                                                  more passenger rail to
                                                  our state. With the
                                                  recent Federal focus on
                                                  infrastructure, the
                                                  timeliness of her
                                                  speech cannot be
                                                  overlooked.
       1/20/2022  Board         Boise Metro      Transit and Rail                                    PPT attached
                  Presentation   Chamber of
                                 Commerce Board
       3/13/2022  Conference    National League  Agenda: Transportation    https://www.nlc.org/wp-
                  Proceedings    of Cities        and Infrastructure        content/
                                                  Services Federal         uploads/2022/03/FINAL-
                                                  Advocacy Committee NLC    TIS-CCC-
                                                  Congressional City       Agenda.pdf
                                                  Conference Sunday,
                                                  March 13, 2022, 1:00-
                                                  4:00 p.m. ET, RAIL &
                                                  TRANSIT The Honorable
                                                  Elaine Clegg Chair of
                                                  TIS and Council
                                                  President, City of
                                                  Boise, ID
       3/13/2022  Conference    APTA Committee   V. Discussion with Key    https://www.apta.com/wp-  PPT attached
                  Panel          on High-Speed    APTA Partners on          content/
                  Discussion     and Intercity    Passenger Rail           uploads/HSIPR-Agenda-
                                 Passenger Rail   Opportunities and         March-2022-
                                                  Challenges               1.pdf
       3/30/2022  Conference    APTA High Speed  General Session: Visions  https://www.apta.com/     https://www
                   Panel         Rail             of State, Local,          conferences-             .apta.com/
                  Presentation   Conference       National and             events/high-speed-rail/    conferences-
                                                  International Leaders;    2022-high-speed-          events/high-
                                                  Join a wide range of     rail-meeting-full-         speed-rail/
                                                  industry leaders and      program/                  2022-high-
                                                  stakeholders as they                                speed-rail-
                                                  discuss the multitude                               conference-
                                                  of benefits that can be                             speakers/
                                                  achieved by building a
                                                  robust high-speed and
                                                  intercity passenger
                                                  rail network that is
                                                  environmentally
                                                  friendly, resilient,
                                                  and sustainable.
       4/12/2022  Infrastructu  Boise Metro      ``Leading For Growth:     https://                  PPT attached
                   re Panel      Chamber of       Solutions through         web.boisechamber.org/
                                 Commerce         Regional Partnerships``   events/
                                 Leadership                                2022-Leadership-
                                 Conference                                 Conference-Leading-For-
                                                                           Growth-Solutions-through-
                                                                            Regional-
                                                                           Partnerships-8250/
                                                                            details
       4/29/2022  Conference    Rail Users       Elaine Clegg who is the   https://                  PPT attached
                                 Network          President of Boise's      www.railusers.net/past-
                                 Virtual Mini-    City Council, and is     conferences/2022-virtual-
                                 Conference       also the Program          mini-conference/
                                                  Manager of Idaho Smart
                                                  Growth, will talk about
                                                  restoring the Pioneer
                                                  Passenger Rail Route
                                                  from Seattle,
                                                  Washington to Denver,
                                                  Colorado.
       4/29/2022  Conference    Rail Users       ``Look West''--Here's     https://                  Agneda doc, PPT
                  Presentation   Network          Where Advocates Are       www.railusers.net/past-   attached
                                 Virtual Mini-    Fighting To Restore/     conferences/2022-virtual-
                                 conference       Expand Rail Service In    mini-conference/
                                                  The Western US/British
                                                  Columbia''
       7/29/2022  Article       Boise Dev        ``Economically it's well  https://boisedev.com/
                                                  proven that rail          2022/06/29/
                                                  connections provide a    amtrak-boise-service/
                                                  lot of economic
                                                  benefits, especially in
                                                  a region like ours
                                                  where the ability to
                                                  travel intercity is so
                                                  limited,'' Boise City
                                                  Council President
                                                  Elaine Clegg said.
                                                  ``The only way to get
                                                  to many of the places
                                                  in our region is by car
                                                  and so in the winter or
                                                  if you're aging or if
                                                  you have other
                                                  restrictions that make
                                                  it difficult for you to
                                                  use a car, it truncates
                                                  the ability to travel
                                                  inter-regionally.''
       7/29/2022  Article       Boise Dev        ``Combined with all of    https://boisedev.com/
                                                  this is an interest to    2022/06/29/
                                                  work on establishing a   amtrak-boise-service/
                                                  regional rail from
                                                  Caldwell to Mountain
                                                  Home that would serve
                                                  the folks in this
                                                  region who need to get
                                                  to the various places
                                                  for work or whatever
                                                  else,'' Clegg said.
                                                  ``In addition to the
                                                  bigger picture long-
                                                  distance benefits,
                                                  there's a real
                                                  potential benefit to
                                                  the region to get the
                                                  opportunity to have an
                                                  option besides driving
                                                  on the freeway to get
                                                  around.''
       8/23/2022  Conference    Big Sky          This session will take a  https://
                   Panel         Passenger Rail   deep dive into the two    www.bigskyrail.org/2022
                  Presentation   Summit           former Amtrak routes--   summit/v/session-6-22214-
                                                  the North Coast           study-routes-1
                                                  Hiawatha and the
                                                  Pioneer--that have
                                                  already been confirmed
                                                  to be included in the
                                                  Section 22214 Study
                                                  directed by the
                                                  Infrastructure
                                                  Investment and Jobs Act
                                                  (IIJA) passed by
                                                  Congress in November
                                                  2021, as well as
                                                  examine other
                                                  discontinued routes in
                                                  the Northwest that may
                                                  also be included in
                                                  that study. Section
                                                  22214 of the IIJA
                                                  directs the U.S.
                                                  Department of
                                                  Transportation to
                                                  conduct a study of
                                                  discontinued long-
                                                  distance rail routes,
                                                  with a report to be
                                                  delivered to Congress
                                                  within two years with
                                                  its findings and
                                                  recommendations on
                                                  which routes Congress
                                                  should fund the
                                                  restoration of. Section
                                                  22214 also allows
                                                  exploration of
                                                  potential new long-
                                                  distance routes, of
                                                  which the FRA may
                                                  address other key
                                                  potential routes in
                                                  this session as well as
                                                  the previous break-out
                                                  sessions.
        9/2/2022  letter        to               From officials in Idaho   https://allaboardnw.org/
                                 Administrator                              site/assets/
                                 Bose regarding                            files/7511/fra-2022-0031-
                                 long distance                              0031_attachment
                                 study                                     _1.pdf
       9/14/2022  Article       Boise Dev        City Council President    https://boisedev.com/
                                                  Elaine Clegg said this    news/2022/09/
                                                  route is only a small    14/boise-salt-lake-city-
                                                  piece of the work to      partnering-to-request-
                                                  bring more robust         rail-service-between-
                                                  passenger rail service    cities/
                                                  to the Mountain West.
                                                  For the last year, she
                                                  has been leading the
                                                  push on including Boise
                                                  in long-distance rail
                                                  routes operated by
                                                  Amtrak, instead of just
                                                  a shorter route with
                                                  more frequent trips
                                                  between Boise and SLC.
                                                  She said in addition to
                                                  adding service between
                                                  Portland and SLC, there
                                                  is discussion of
                                                  studying a north-south
                                                  route called Desert
                                                  Wind from Utah down to
                                                  Las Vegas. ``It would
                                                  be a tremendous route
                                                  if they do end up
                                                  identifying that,''
                                                  Clegg said.
       9/15/2022  Article       Idaho News       ``The corridor ID         https://idahonews.com/
                                                  program really offers     news/local/
                                                  an opportunity to go     boise-to-salt-lake-
                                                  beyond the long-          passenger-rail-line
                                                  distance Amtrak
                                                  routes,'' Boise City
                                                  Council President
                                                  Elaine Clegg said.
                                                  ``And look at more
                                                  frequent service
                                                  between those city
                                                  pairs that can be so
                                                  important to the
                                                  economic region.''
       9/19/2022  Article       KSL              ``Any (routes) chosen by  https://www.ksl.com/
                                                  (the Federal Railroad     article/50478925/
                                                  Administration) through  a-utah-train-to-idaho-
                                                  this and the long         salt-lake-boise-leaders-
                                                  distance study will be    are-working-to-restore-
                                                  eligible for technical    old-service
                                                  assistance It's really
                                                  exciting stuff.''
       9/22/2022  Article       KJZZ             ``The corridor ID         https://kjzz.com/news/
                                                  program really offers     local/passenger
                                                  an opportunity to go     -train-route-from-salt-
                                                  beyond the long-          lake-city-to-boise-
                                                  distance Amtrak           under-consideration
                                                  routes,'' Boise City
                                                  Council President
                                                  Elaine Clegg said.
                                                  ``And look at more
                                                  frequent service
                                                  between those city
                                                  pairs that can be so
                                                  important to the
                                                  economic region.''
       9/26/2022  Article       Idaho Statesman  Elaine Clegg, Boise's     https://
                                                  City Council president,   www.idahostatesman.com/
                                                  has for years been        news/
                                                  advocating for the       local/traffic/
                                                  return of rail service    article266189766.html
                                                  through the historic
                                                  Boise Depot. She told
                                                  the Idaho Statesman
                                                  that while Amtrak has
                                                  long left huge swaths
                                                  of the Mountain West
                                                  out of its future
                                                  service plans, that may
                                                  now be changing as the
                                                  Federal government
                                                  injects previously
                                                  unheard of amounts of
                                                  money into the Nation's
                                                  rail.
       9/26/2022  Article       Idaho Statesman  ``They are recognizing    https://
                                                  that this is maybe a      www.idahostatesman.com/
                                                  once in a lifetime        news/
                                                  opportunity to           local/traffic/
                                                  reestablish rail in       article266189766.html
                                                  ways in the United
                                                  States that we haven't
                                                  seen since the 1960s,''
                                                  Clegg said.
       9/26/2022  Article       Idaho Statesman  ``About a quarter of the  https://www.idahostates
                                                  people in the United      man.com/news/
                                                  States live in rural     local/traffic/
                                                  places,'' Clegg said.     article266189766.html
                                                  These areas have ``been
                                                  contributing to Amtrak
                                                  over the years (and)
                                                  haven't seen any
                                                  service from it.''
       10/2/2022  Article       Lewiston         Elaine Clegg, Boise's     https://
                                 Tribune          City Council president,   www.lmtribune.com/
                                                  has for years been        business/
                                                  advocating for the       train-travel-plan-gains-
                                                  return of rail service    steam/article_
                                                  through the historic     38e53330-4077-5b08-ac57-
                                                  Boise Depot. She told     518aff65
                                                  the Idaho Statesman      428d.html
                                                  that while Amtrak has
                                                  long left huge swaths
                                                  of the Mountain West
                                                  out of its future
                                                  service plans, that may
                                                  now be changing as the
                                                  Federal government
                                                  injects previously
                                                  unheard of amounts of
                                                  money into the Nation's
                                                  rail. ``They are
                                                  recognizing that this
                                                  is maybe a once in a
                                                  lifetime opportunity to
                                                  reestablish rail in
                                                  ways in the United
                                                  States that we haven't
                                                  seen since the 1960s,''
                                                  Clegg said.
      12/22/2022  Article       Idaho Statesman  Transportation has been   https://
                                                  a focus of Clegg's on     www.idahostatesman.com/
                                                  the council, where she    news/
                                                  has spearheaded efforts  local/community/boise/
                                                  to bring passenger rail   article27034
                                                  back to Boise with the   9102.html
                                                  help of Federal
                                                  funding.
       1/31/2023  Article       KTVB             ``One of the reasons I    https://www.ktvb.com/
                                                  became a proponent of     article/news/
                                                  long rail is that it     local/growing-idaho/
                                                  then establishes          elaine-clegg-valley-
                                                  passenger movement on    regional-transit-public-
                                                  that rail corridor. And   transportation-bus-
                                                  once that's              train-treasure-valley/
                                                  established, then in      277-07537ef5-44e2-
                                                  fact, we can use it for  4a69-a784-452a7c898714
                                                  commuter,'' Clegg said.
                                                  ``Having said that,
                                                  without a good bus
                                                  system underneath it,
                                                  it won't work. And so
                                                  we really need both.''
       1/31/2023  Article,      KTVB             Career review             https://www.google.com/
                  Biographical                                              amp/s/
                   Sketch                                                  www.ktvb.com/amp/article/
                                                                            news/
                                                                           local/growing-idaho/
                                                                            elaine-clegg-boise-
                                                                           growth/277-b499f7bc-9556-
                                                                            43b1-ad78-
                                                                           56745d0edeab
       2/13/2023  Blog          PNWR Capital     ``[PNWR] met with Elaine  https://www.pnwer.org/
                                 Visits           Clegg, CEO of Valley      blog/recapping-
                                                  Regional Transit, and    the-2023-pnwer-capital-
                                                  Bill Conners, CEO of      visits
                                                  the Boise Metro
                                                  Chamber, to discuss
                                                  trains and transit in
                                                  the Treasure Valley.''
        3/7/2023  Article,      VRT              ``Get to know the CEO``   https://
                  Biographical                                              www.valleyregionaltrans
                   Sketch                                                   it.org/
                                                                           news/get-to-know-the-ceo/

       3/22/2023  Conference    AANW Connect
                                 Rail Summit
       3/31/2023  Conference    Montana Rail
                                 Effort
       4/14/2023  Panel         National         Sustainability and the    https://www.nar.realtor/
                                 Assocaiton of    State of Idaho            sustainability/
                                 Realtors,                                 nar-community-and-
                                 Community and                              stewardship-series-
                                 Stewardship                                boise-idaho
                                 Series
        6/1/2023  Presentation  Boise Rotary                               ppt attached
                                 Club
        6/6/2023  Panel         Idaho Business   ``There's $66 billion in  https://idahobusiness
                  Discussion     Review:          the bipartisan            review.com/2023/
                                 Transportation   infrastructure law over  06/06/ibr-panel-
                                 's Future in     five years for trains.    transportations-future-
                                 Idaho            It's over 10 times what   in-idaho/
                                                  we've spent as a
                                                  country on railroads in
                                                  forever, and certainly
                                                  in decades. Part of
                                                  that includes money to
                                                  do a long distance
                                                  study of routes that
                                                  were discontinued in
                                                  the past. One of those
                                                  routes is Pioneer. The
                                                  Federal Railroad
                                                  Administration (FRA) is
                                                  charged with developing
                                                  a recommendation for
                                                  Congress by November 15
                                                  of this year, and from
                                                  that recommendation,
                                                  Congress will determine
                                                  which of those routes
                                                  they will direct Amtrak
                                                  to add back into the
                                                  national system. So,
                                                  we're very hopeful that
                                                  the Pioneer will both
                                                  get that recommendation
                                                  from FRA and get that
                                                  vote from Congress.
                                                  When it comes time,
                                                  we'll let you all know
                                                  who you can contact to
                                                  help with that vote, I
                                                  think there may be some
                                                  action there.''
       7/12/2023  Conference,   Greater          Moderator: Elaine Clegg.  https://gnwprs.org/2023/
                   Panel         Northwest        Better Together: Moving   videos/
                  Moderator      Passenger Rail   People & Freight on the
                                 Summit           Same Tracks.
                                                  Introducing High
                                                  Performance Rail--
                                                  Identifying ways to co-
                                                  invest in freight and
                                                  passenger rail to
                                                  improve overall rail
                                                  performance. How have
                                                  passenger rail service
                                                  providers across the
                                                  U.S. and Canada
                                                  successfully navigated
                                                  their relationships
                                                  with host freight
                                                  railroads? How can
                                                  those lessons inform
                                                  the current discussion
                                                  to expand passenger
                                                  rail service in the
                                                  Pacific Northwest?
       7/12/2023  Conference    Idaho Press      Elaine Clegg, CEO of      https://
                  Article                         Valley Regional Transit   www.idahopress.com/news/
                                                  and former Boise city
                                                  councilmember, said      local/everyone-has-a-
                                                  that around three years   train-story-north
                                                  ago, leaders formed the  west-leaders-hopeful-
                                                  Greater Northwest         rail-service-will-re
                                                  Passenger Rail Working   turn-to-idaho/
                                                  Group to determine        article_92fd436c-27f3-
                                                  interest in the idea.    11ee-b24e-
                                                  Since then, Clegg said,   537a8906963a.html
                                                  the group has turned
                                                  Amtrak and others from
                                                  skeptics to supporters.
      10/18/2023  Conference    Idaho Walk Bike  Leadership (elected       https://
                   Panel         Alliance         officials--local and      idahowalkbike.org/2023-
                  Moderator      Transportation   state) Senator Rick       trans
                                 Conference       Just, Representative     portation-conference/
                                                  Julie Yamamoto, Mayor
                                                  Jarom Wagoner, City
                                                  Councilwoman Linda
                                                  Leeuwrik,--Moderator:
                                                  Elaine Clegg
      11/21/2023  Article       Idaho Statesman  Of course, the rail is a  https://
                                                  big issue of mine. I'll   www.idahostatesman.com/
                                                  continue to work on       news/
                                                  that. I think there's a  local/community/boise/
                                                  tremendous opportunity    article273154
                                                  to do regional rail      270.html
                                                  here. That could be a
                                                  game-changer in terms
                                                  of how people move
                                                  around regionally in
                                                  the valley.
       12/7/2023  Panel         Idaho Business   Clegg: ``There's $66      https://                  PPT link
                  Discussion     Review: Forum    billion in the            idahobusinessreview.com/
                                 on the Future    bipartisan                tag/
                                                  infrastructure law over  idaho-transportation/
                                                  five years for trains.
                                                  It's over 10 times what
                                                  we've spent as a
                                                  country on railroads in
                                                  forever, and certainly
                                                  in decades. Part of
                                                  that includes money to
                                                  do a long distance
                                                  study of routes that
                                                  were discontinued in
                                                  the past. One of those
                                                  routes is Pioneer. The
                                                  Federal Railroad
                                                  Administration (FRA) is
                                                  charged with developing
                                                  a recommendation for
                                                  Congress by November 15
                                                  of this year, and from
                                                  that recommendation,
                                                  Congress will determine
                                                  which of those routes
                                                  they will direct Amtrak
                                                  to add back into the
                                                  national system. So,
                                                  we're very hopeful that
                                                  the Pioneer will both
                                                  get that recommendation
                                                  from FRA and get that
                                                  vote from Congress.
                                                  When it comes time,
                                                  we'll let you all know
                                                  who you can contact to
                                                  help with that vote, I
                                                  think there may be some
                                                  action there.''
        2/8/2024  Podcast       Talking          we have incredible asset  https://theoverhead
                                 Headways         running right through     wire.com/2024/02/
                                                  the middle of our        unedited-podcast-
                                                  valley. So we have a      transcript-469-on-the-
                                                  main line, it's all       bus-in-boise/
                                                  owned by Union Pacific
                                                  that handles a lot of
                                                  freight that skirts.
                                                  The valley on the south
                                                  does run through the
                                                  middle of the two most
                                                  Western cities, Nampa
                                                  and Caldwell. But at
                                                  Nampa there's a short
                                                  line that takes off and
                                                  that short line then
                                                  runs through the City
                                                  of mood and the City of
                                                  Boise, the two other
                                                  biggest cities in the
                                                  state of Idaho. And so
                                                  I've always been
                                                  interested in trying to
                                                  figure out a way to use
                                                  this rail line. We had
                                                  rail service, Amtrak,
                                                  long distance rail
                                                  service up until 1997
                                                  and there's long been a
                                                  movement to try and
                                                  reintroduce that. So I
                                                  got involved in that
                                                  movement during the
                                                  pandemic and, but the
                                                  ulterior motive for me,
                                                  even well before I took
                                                  this job was that that
                                                  would open the door to
                                                  this regional rail that
                                                  could make such a
                                                  difference in this
                                                  region. You know, a
                                                  freeway lane can move a
                                                  thousand cars an hour,
                                                  maybe 1500 if
                                                  everything's running
                                                  perfectly. And a rail
                                                  line like we're talking
                                                  about, can easily move
                                                  10,000 people an hour.
                                                  So If, you look at the
                                                  investment per
                                                  movement, you can
                                                  really make the case
                                                  financially that it
                                                  makes sense Not to
                                                  mention that there
                                                  really isn't anywhere
                                                  else to try and move
                                                  people in this valley
                                                  without double decking
                                                  the freeway or you
                                                  know, the kinds of
                                                  things that you see
                                                  that we now just don't
                                                  work. Yes. So that's
                                                  where the movement came
                                                  from. We're at a point
                                                  where we put in for a
                                                  quarter ID program
                                                  grant, did not get it,
                                                  but got a lot of input
                                                  that we had a great
                                                  line, there were
                                                  technical problems with
                                                  the application, not
                                                  the application itself,
                                                  administrative
                                                  problems, and we should
                                                  continue to move
                                                  forward. At the same
                                                  time we're in the works
                                                  for a reestablishment
                                                  of their long distance
                                                  line through an FRA
                                                  study. So we're
                                                  continuing to work on
                                                  all of those And then
                                                  as a organization,
                                                  valley Regional Transit
                                                  is pursuing what it
                                                  would take to use the
                                                  corridor for regional
                                                  rail by doing a
                                                  planning environmental
                                                  linkages study on that
                                                  rail line with our
                                                  local MPO.

        20. List all digital platforms (including social media and other
    digital content sites) on which you currently or have formerly operated
    an account, regardless of whether or not the account was held in your
    name or an alias. Include the full name of an ``alias'' or ``handle'',
    including the complete URL and username with hyperlinks, you have used
    on each of the named platforms. Indicate whether the account is active,
    deleted, or dormant. Include a link to each account if possible.

            Facebook: Elaine M Clegg elaine.m.clegg

            Facebook: Elaine Clegg for Valley Regional Transit clegg4VRT

            Twitter: Elaine Clegg, VRT CEO @clegg4VRT

            Linkedin: Elaine Clegg, CEO, Valley Regional Transit LinkedIn

        21. Please identify each instance in which you have testified
    orally or in writing before Congress in a governmental or non-
    governmental capacity and specify the date and subject matter of each
    testimony.

            HOUSE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
            SUBCOMMITTEE ON HIGHWAYS AND TRANSIT HEARING ``ADDRESSING THE
            ROADWAY SAFETY CRISIS: BUILDING SAFER ROADS FOR ALL'' JUNE 8,
            2022

            Link to statement https://www.congress.gov/117/meeting/house/
            114856/witnesses/HHRG-117-PW12-Wstate-CleggE-20220608.pdf

            Link to hearing https://democrats-transportation.house.gov/
            committee-activity/hearings/addressing-the-roadway-safety-
            crisis-building-safer-roads-for-all

        22. Given the current mission, major programs, and major
    operational objectives of the department/agency to which you have been
    nominated, what in your background or employment experience do you
    believe affirmatively qualifies you for appointment to the position for
    which you have been nominated, and why do you wish to serve in that
    position?
        My many years of service as an elected public sector city council
    member with oversight and accountability on policy and budget across
    the city organization and as a board member in many organizations
    working on local and national transportation issues has given me a
    depth of knowledge of the workings of complicated budgets in the
    $100Ms. These were also experiences for which the ability to know and
    manage policy and oversight across a multi-faceted transportation
    organization--across both operations issues as well as policy
    improvements--has been a critical asset. I am a policy wonk who is
    never content with merely accepting what is without questioning what
    could be and how it could be done better and more effectively. Never
    short on ideas myself, my deep background in team sports has served me
    well to help find the best ideas collaboratively, whether mine or
    someone else's, and then pulling together as a team to move them
    forward. The challenges of reinvigorating passenger rail in the United
    States to act as a national connector while not losing sight of the
    focus needed on the important high-capacity corridors along the east
    and west coasts will require that kind of cooperative approach. I am
    excited to bring those skills to this important work at such a vital
    moment in the history of improving transportation choices and
    connections in the US. I am also eager to explore the promise of high
    performing rail corridors that look to maximize the service of these
    important rights of way and utilize the joint freight/passenger
    potential as a feature not a bug.
        23. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to
    ensure that the department/agency has proper management and accounting
    controls, and what experience do you have in managing a large
    organization?
        Board members have a responsibility to do their homework before
    board meetings, request material they think is necessary to provide
    good oversight, engage at board meetings with questions and comments
    and to understand the budget and any budget materials provided. Those
    who know me will tell you that I am that kind of board member. I always
    come prepared, I always ask questions beforehand if there is something
    I don't fully understand, I listen to presentations and engage in
    discussion around them, I am never afraid to ask to remove things from
    the consent agenda if needed or to hold things for follow-up if they
    are not ready for decision. I am a stickler for process, as good
    process leads to good information which leads to good decisions. I have
    spent much of my working life developing skills and strategies to
    foster and listen to productive insight from the public on issues they
    care about. For over 19 years as an elected public sector city council
    member, I had oversight and accountability on policy and budgets in the
    $100Ms, across 12 complex departments in the city organization. I
    oversaw the implementation of a new procedure using the city council
    office of internal audit to regularly audit everyday expenditures at
    the city not just to find the pennies that were not being spent
    appropriately but to report and provide recommendations to improve
    procedures and processes that were not working correctly. This improved
    the efficiency of the financial transactions at the city.
        That oversight led to clean audits. Importantly, it also raised
    confidence in the expenditure processes that allowed us to move policy
    more quickly to implementation by managing the funding effectively in a
    priority-based budgeting process. Getting to best outcomes requires not
    just spending the money according to the rules, but also spending it to
    move forward most effectively on priorities. I will bring that
    commitment and experience to this position.
        24. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the
    department/agency, and why?
        The National Passenger Rail Corporation, Amtrak, has been
    challenged since its inception with uncertain future budgets and
    unpredictable policy support. The lack of certainty and predictability
    has contributed to the three challenges now facing the organization.
    And yet the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) authorized more funding
    for rail projects and operations than the U.S. has seen in decades.
    Spending that money and doing it well overarches all issues.

      A.  The Northeast Corridor (NEC), while very successful, was
            developed with a heavy commuter focus. Amtrak owns much of the
            right-of-way along the NEC and there are portions in need of
            modern improvements and other portions where those improvements
            must be done collaboratively with partners. The equipment is
            old. The BIL authorizes historic levels of funding to meet
            these challenges.

          Simultaneously looking at different operational strategies to
            meet a new demand less focused on commuters, taking delivery
            and testing the new equipment that has been ordered but is late
            arriving due to supply chain challenges and developing the
            plans, designs and then constructing the needed infrastructure
            improvements must be achieved for the NEC to live up to its
            potential.

      B.  The areas in the U.S. that are not on the east or west coasts
            have spotty passenger rail service. In some places the service
            does not meet expectations for on time performance or quality.
            It is plagued in many places with delays dues to operating on
            freight rail corridors. In others the rail is lower speed and
            the run times are long. Some parts of the US, particularly the
            intermountain west, lack service entirely. Connections between
            routes and between important destinations are not timely. In
            the face of these hurdles many are judging whether the system
            is worthy of more investment.

          Building national support to invest in rail on par with the
            investment this country made in highways in 1956 would change
            the face of travel in the country. It would grow the economy,
            allow winter trips that are not being taken today because of
            weather-related barriers, serve numerous city pairs that have
            no travel options except driving under the current system,
            bridge the great distances in the west and provide more timely
            connections across the US. To prompt more support, Amtrak must
            try new ideas. More effective operation/management contracts
            and systems such as the Capitol Corridor in California that
            allow freight and passenger to not only coexist but to thrive
            in moving more freight and more people on time should be
            explored. Upgrading equipment and amenities for a better trip,
            trying new ideas such as interlined routes and overlapping more
            effectively with state supported routes to achieve higher
            frequency may be options. If successful, the system can become
            as well-traveled as rail systems in other parts of the world
            and can build bipartisan support for the investments needed to
            make it work.

      C.  Amtrak is in the midst of hiring (and rehiring) an unprecedented
            number of staff. Finding the right people, getting them
            trained, and putting them into service while keeping safety at
            the forefront is not an easy task, but is necessary to run the
            system that many envision. Staff alone won't make the
            organization run better unless they are the right people, with
            the right task. The board oversight of management can help
            deliver on that.

        I have the intersection of Board expertise, budget experience and
    policy knowledge, paired with a big picture outlook to address these
    challenges.
                       b. potential conflicts of interest
        1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation
    agreements, and other continuing dealings with business associates,
    clients, or customers. Please include information related to retirement
    accounts, such as a 401(k) or pension plan.

       I currently work as CEO of Valley Regional Transit, the
            regional transit authority for Ada and Canyon Counties in the
            Boise ID metropolitan region. I am a fully vested member of the
            Public Employee Retirement System of Idaho (PERSI), a defined
            benefit pension plan. I hold a small 401K account with PERSI

       I was an elected member of the Boise City Council for 19+
            years and also participated in PERSI though the city and hold a
            401K through the city.

       I previously worked for the non-profit Idaho Smart Growth
            and hold 401Ks from that time.

       I hold small 401K funds from working at PayLess Drug Store
            early in my career.

       My husband has worked for Jacobs Solutions Inc, previously
            CH2M Hill Inc. for over 45 years, he still works part time. We
            hold a small defined benefit pension from the first few years
            of his service. We hold larger 401K funds and have re-invested
            stock and other assets from his time there in IRAs ROTH IRAs
            and Annuities.

        2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or informal,
    to maintain employment, affiliation, or practice with any business,
    association, or other organization during your appointment? If so,
    please explain.
        I plan to continue employment as CEO of Valley Regional Transit and
    to retain positions as a member of the Boards of The Bus Coalition, the
    Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho and the Treasure
    Valley Clean Cities Coalition, and membership on the American Public
    Transportation Association High Speed and Passenger Rail committee. I
    would intend to retain memberships in The Women's Transportation
    Seminar, ULI, Idaho Chapter, APA Idaho Chapter and non-profit
    memberships in Idaho Smart Growth, the Idaho Walk Bike Alliance and the
    Treasure Valley Canopy Network..
        3. Indicate any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other
    relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in
    the position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will
    resolve each potential conflict of interest.
        In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with
    the designated Amtrak ethics official to identify potential conflicts
    of interest. Any potential conflicts of interest will be resolved in
    accordance with the Amtrak Board of Directors' Code of Business Conduct
    and Ethics and the terms of Amtrak's Ethics Opinion Letter which has
    been provided to this Committee. I am not aware of any other potential
    conflicts of interest.
        4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial
    transaction which you have had during the last ten years, whether for
    yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in
    any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the
    position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will resolve
    each potential conflict of interest. None.
        5. Identify any other potential conflicts of interest, and explain
    how you will resolve each potential conflict of interest. None.
        6. Describe any activity during the past ten years, including the
    names of clients represented, in which you have been engaged for the
    purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the passage, defeat, or
    modification of any legislation or affecting the administration and
    execution of law or public policy.
        I have commented and advocated to the Idaho congressional
    delegation for transportation policy on every reauthorization since
    1998 particularly working to help the delegation understand strengths
    of a balanced transportation systems with multiple mode options and in
    support of establishing a Safe Routes to School policy and program
    during the TEA-21 and SAFETEA-LU reauthorizations. Later I worked with
    the Idaho congressional delegation to ensure SRTS was continued in the
    consolidation of Transportation Enhancements and SRTS into the new
    Transportation Alternatives program in Map-21. Most of that advocacy
    was related to my work at Idaho Smart Growth.
        As a Board member for the Association of Metropolitan Planning
    Organizations (MPOs) I served on a study committee that included
    representatives from other national organizations in preparation for
    the Map-21 reauthorization that worked to develop policy options
    designed to make MPOs more effective and efficient and ultimately
    supported only minor policy changes and an increase in funding for
    planning grants to address the growth in the number of MPOs authorized
    during MAP-21
        As a private citizen and a city council member I have generally
    advocated for establishment of passenger rail service in Idaho since
    Idaho lost that service in 1997, including specifically supporting the
    bipartisan efforts of Senators Crapo and Wyden to study the restoration
    of the Amtrak Pioneer Route in 2008 and 2009 to the Idaho congressional
    delegation and germane committee members.
        At Idaho Smart Growth I convened the voice of the non-profit
    planning community to develop positions on state policy issues from
    2014-2016. My job was to then inform members of our organization on
    those positions and ask those members to comment to their legislators.
    Those positions were generally protection of the Local Land Use
    Planning Act provisions on growth management, specifically annexation
    policy and area of city impact policy. That group also supported state
    support for SRTS after the changes consolidating it into the
    Transportation Alternatives Program in national policy during Map-21
    that continued in the FAST-Act.
        During the last decade I have advocated for better transportation
    policy and policy that impacts housing and land use at both the state
    and national level on several fronts. Most of this work was focused on
    transportation policy at the national level and much of it overlapped
    my roles on city council and at Idaho Smart Growth. This advocacy was
    informed by my membership and chairmanship of the Transportation and
    Infrastructure Services Committee (TIS) at the National League of
    Cities (NLC), my service as a City Council member and member of the
    Association of Idaho Cities board and legislative committee, as a
    member of the Greater Northwest Passenger Rail Working Group and most
    recently as a Board member for the Bus Coalition and Committee member
    of the APTA high Speed & passenger Rail Committee. This advocacy was
    generally in support of Safe Routes to Schools policy and programs;
    complete streets policies; bicycle, pedestrian and transit user safety
    policies including Vision Zero and Safe Systems; restoration of
    passenger rail service in the greater northwest, continued growth in
    rail funding and authorized transportation funding levels that
    supported growth in roadways, transit, bicycle and pedestrian, and rail
    infrastructure. Listed below are the issues I worked directly on with
    members of Congress or through my organizational representation and the
    organization I was working with.
        2015-2020--Issues related to the implementation of the
    transportation reauthorization (FAST-Act) related to consolidation of
    the SRTS and Transportation Enhancements programs into Transportation
    Alternatives; issues related to implementing complete streets policies
    at U.S. DOT and the Idaho Transportation Department; establishment of a
    child pedestrian safety program in Idaho--advocated as Idaho Smart
    Growth representative to Idaho congressional delegates and germane
    committee members, and to state legislators and officials.
        2015-2020--Issues related to the transportation reauthorization
    (FAST-Act) and advocating to broaden the flexibility allowed in the
    restructuring of the Surface Transportation Program into the Surface
    Transportation Block Grant (STBG); issues related to the implementation
    of the STBG program--advocated as a MPO and AMPO Board member and city
    council advocate to Idaho congressional delegates.
        2009-2020--Issues related to general principals in the TIS policy;
    local control and flexibility in use of Federal highway trust funds
    including sub allocating funds to the MPO or local level; modal equity,
    intermodalism and multimodalism; user safety; streamlining project
    delivery and reducing duplicative and allowing concurrent reviews;
    increased funding for transit; comprehensive planning for passenger
    rail expansion; increase funding for rail infrastructure; rail safety
    including blocked crossings and information sharing around hazardous
    fuels movement; freight planning and discretionary grants; supporting
    further testing of alternative means of collecting funds for the
    highway trust fund; allowing technological innovations to be tested;
    continuing Federal support for airports; airport noise concerns as
    next-gen traffic control is implemented;--advocated as a city council
    member and member of the NLC TIS committee to Idaho congressional
    delegates and administration members at U.S. DOT
        2020-2023--Issues related to transportation reauthorization/
    infrastructure package (Moving American Forward Act--H.R. 2); later the
    Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Pub. L. 117-58); issues related
    to rental assistance and increased funding for housing assistance
    related to the financial pressures created by the pandemic;
    implementation of IIJA; issues related to the creation of a Greater
    Northwest Passenger rail working group; return of the Pioneer Rail
    Services; FRA Corridor Rail ID program; advocate for transit funding
    and flexibility; review disparity in airport funding issues in CARES
    Act--advocated as a city council member to Idaho congressional
    delegates.
        2021-2023--Continued advocacy on issues related to the TIS policy
    specifically related to; new discretionary grant programs in support of
    sub-allocation; technical assistance to eligible applicants of new
    discretionary programs to ensure equitable access to those programs;
    safe systems approach to roadway injuries and deaths; increased support
    for passenger rail planning and expansion; improved rail safety and
    support for the Bipartisan Railway Safety Act of 2023; increased
    eligibility and funding for Build America Bureau financing tools;
    support of these issues in specific policies in the IIJA--advocated as
    a city council member and member of the NLC TIS committee to Idaho
    congressional delegates and administration members at U.S. DOT
        JUNE 8, 2022--The Honorable Elaine Clegg, on behalf of the National
    League of Cities before the House Subcommittee on Transportation and
    Infrastructure Subcommittee on Highways and Transit, a hearing
    addressing the Roadway Safety Crisis: Building Safer Roads for All.
    Testimony encouraging a Safe systems approach to Roadway deaths using
    the Safe Streets and Roads for All program developed by USDOT.
        2021-2024--issues related to expansion of passenger rail service in
    the US; creation of additional interstate compacts; completion of a
    long-distance study by the FRA; funding for revitalization and
    restoration of long-distance routes outside the Northeast Corridor,
    support for improving the Northeast Corridor; support for a Corridor
    Identification program; support for increased funding for CRISI,
    Crossing Elimination and R&E program; support for high performance rail
    corridors--advocated as a city council member and now as CEO of Valley
    Regional Transit and as a member of the Greater Northwest Passenger
    Rail Working group to Idaho congressional delegates, Commerce Committee
    members and administration members at U.S. DOT and FRA.
        2023-2024--Issues related to the loss of fleet numbers and the
    aging of bus fleets in bus transit services across the United States
    due to reduced funding levels in MAP-21 and the FAST-Act; issues
    related to the cost increases due to supply chain shortages and
    inflation for bus purchases, requesting a plus-up for bus and bus
    facilities funding to address the cost increases and shortages; and
    requesting a temporary waiver of Buy America rules for a particular
    small transit bus that is working to become Buy America eligible and
    offers a cost effective and service effective alternative for small bus
    purchases now--advocated as CEO of Valley Regional Transit and as a
    Board member of the Bus Coalition to Idaho congressional delegates.
                                c. legal matters
        1. Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics,
    professional misconduct, or retaliation by, or been the subject of a
    complaint to, any court, administrative agency, the Office of Special
    Counsel, an Inspector General, professional association, disciplinary
    committee, or other professional group? If yes:

      a.  Provide the name of court, agency, association, committee, or
            group;

      b.  Provide the date the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
            personnel action was issued or initiated;

      c.  Describe the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
            personnel action;

      d.  Provide the results of the citation, disciplinary action,
            complaint, or personnel action.
        No.
        2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by
    any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal,
    State, county, or municipal entity, other than for a minor traffic
    offense? If so, please explain. No.
        3. Have you or any business or nonprofit of which you are or were
    an officer ever been involved as a party in an administrative agency
    proceeding, criminal proceeding, or civil litigation? If so, please
    explain.
        Yes.
        A lawsuit was filed against the City of Boise and named all city
    council members as well as the mayor and two administrative officials.
    At the time I was a member of the city council and was named in the
    lawsuit along with the other council members and the mayor. The
    plaintiffs alleged that the City's lease of a property for a homeless
    shelter violated the Establishment Clause because the lessee intended
    to include religious activities in its programming. The U.S. Court of
    Appeals for the Ninth Circuit dismissed the claims against me and the
    other council members. Case information below.

            United States Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit.
            COMMUNITY HOUSE, INC.; Marlene K. Smith; Greg A. Luther; Jay D.
            Banta, Plaintiffs-Appellees, v. CITY OF BOISE, IDAHO; Boise
            City Council, Defendant, David H. Bieter, Mayor; Maryann
            Jordan; Elaine Clegg; Vernon Bisterfeldt; David Eberle; Jerome
            Mapp; Alan Shealy; Bruce Chatterton, Director, Planning and
            Development Services; Jim Birdsall, Manager, Housing and
            Community Development, Defendants-Appellants.
            No. 09-35780.
            Decided: October 06, 2010
            Before ALEX KOZINSKI, Chief Circuit Judge, STEPHEN S. TROTT and
            N. RANDY SMITH, Circuit Judges.

        4. Have you ever been convicted (including pleas of guilty or nolo
    contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic
    offense? If so, please explain. No.
        5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual
    harassment or discrimination on the basis of sex, race, religion, or
    any other basis? If so, please explain. No.
        6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information,
    favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in
    connection with your nomination.
                         d. relationship with committee
        1. Will you ensure that your department/agency complies with
    deadlines for information set by congressional committees, and that
    your department/agency endeavors to timely comply with requests for
    information from individual Members of Congress, including requests
    from members in the minority? Yes.
        2. Will you ensure that your department/agency does whatever it can
    to protect congressional witnesses and whistleblowers from reprisal for
    their testimony and disclosures? Yes.
        3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested
    witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with
    firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee? Yes.
        4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly
    constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may be
    reasonably requested to do so? Yes.

    [GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]

                                     ______

                                  STATEMENT OF
                           THE HONORABLE ELAINE CLEGG
                      COUNCIL PRESIDENT, CITY OF BOISE, ID
             ON BEHALF OF THE NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES BEFORE THE
              HOUSE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
           SUBCOMMITTEE ON HIGHWAYS AND TRANSIT HEARING ``ADDRESSING
           THE ROADWAY SAFETY CRISIS: BUILDING SAFER ROADS FOR ALL''
                                  JUNE 8, 2022
        Good morning, Chairman DeFazio, Chair Norton, Ranking Member
    Graves, Ranking Member Davis, and members of the Subcommittee.
        I am here today on behalf of the National League of Cities to
    discuss the commitment of local governments to saving lives on our
    Nation's roads, streets, and sidewalks. Last year, 42,915 Americans
    died in motor vehicle traffic crashes. This annual death toll
    represents the entire population of cities like Burlington, VT,
    Jefferson City, MO, Woodbridge, VA, or Tigard, OR. In Idaho, this death
    toll is more than the populations of two of Idaho's largest cities,
    Twin Falls and Post Falls, in just two years. Year after year, we are
    losing entire populations of cities to this crisis on our roads, and
    that is why we must prioritize road safety now.
        We must also acknowledge that safety is not a big city issue alone.
    Almost every small Idaho community has a highway running through and
    that transportation corridor is the lifeblood of their economy. Yet,
    towns are a place to stop, a place for residents to live safely, a
    place with a special purpose that caused them to be formed. After
    working with nearly forty small Idaho towns, I can tell you that
    highway choices can cause real blood shed when highway design does not
    connect their town but divides it. Too often, crashes that have maimed
    and taken the lives of locals simply trying to cross the street connect
    back to design issues--unsafe crossings, narrow inconsistent sidewalks,
    and little space for outdoor dining or other local economic drivers
    that make the city a great place. This doesn't serve Idaho or the small
    towns in all the other states, nor does it serve the drivers who are
    often haunted forever by the people they hit. We can do better, and we
    need to do better.
        We also know that pedestrians and older Americans are especially
    vulnerable and make up an outsized proportion of the yearly deaths with
    fatalities increasing at a rate of 13 percent to 17 percent of all
    deaths for pedestrians. The Governors Highway Safety Association
    believes this is the largest number of pedestrian deaths in four
    decades. Fatalities among older Americans have increased 17 percent to
    nearly 20 percent of all deaths. Idaho had the most traffic deaths in
    16 years in 2021, and one of the highest rates of increase in the
    Nation at 36 percent a--that is three times the average rate of
    increase in other states. The reality in America right now is that no
    matter the size of your community or whether it is urban, suburban or
    rural, this persistent issue hits hard at home and in your Districts.
    So many communities are concerned--from Idaho's communities to
    Doraville, GA, to Ferndale, MI, to Greenville, NC, to Culver City, CA--
    and taking action to set up plans and projects despite tough recovery
    budget cycles and difficult decisions.
        As the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) said so well,
    behind each of these numbers is a life tragically lost, and a family
    left behind. In Idaho, we take part in a memorial to line up shoes
    representing the pedestrians and bicyclists who have died in crashes in
    the last five years on the state capitol steps. At our ceremony each
    year, we hear from family members who have lost a loved one in one of
    these terrible crashes and learn about the personal human toll this
    takes on our families. There is the sad reality behind the numbers--
    like the mother who has raised her two daughters without their father
    after he was killed biking to work. These are stark reminders to
    double-down on what works and act to save lives today.
        Zero is the only acceptable number of deaths on America's roads.
    Yet, many of the fundamental measures and guides of transportation are
    reasons that cities and towns cannot easily change our roads to be
    safer for everyone and reach this goal on our own. Collectively,
    federal, state and local governments must be willing to adjust our
    rules of the road for design and speed in order to save lives. Cities
    and towns have found that Federal measures and designs rely too heavily
    on car throughput measures set during the era of freeway building to
    keep single-purpose, high-speed, limited access roadways safe and
    moving. But no city or town is only a highway--Main Street America in
    cities small and large have a multitude of access points and users with
    a need to create safe and efficient access from their homes to their
    destinations. As a local example, an intersection near my daughter's
    house in Boise was recently redesigned with the benefit-cost of those
    moving straight through the intersection prioritized above all other
    users. This means that it now takes her up to five minutes longer to
    drive her children to school; because to turn left she has to turn
    right, cross two lanes of traffic, travel a quarter of a mile, complete
    a U-turn across two lanes of traffic and then wait for the light to
    travel across the intersection she might have turned left at. It has
    forced the school district to change and lengthen bus routes as they
    deem the move too dangerous for their buses. The businesses on the four
    corners of this intersection are now all but impossible to reach on
    foot or by driving. The choice to prioritize that throughput was made
    without analyzing these other impacts.
        As we begin a great time of rebuilding America's infrastructure, we
    need to work together to quickly adopt better measures and designs that
    can take into account more factors like speed, distance, impact on non-
    drivers, and time of travel. We believe that if we reset our goals and
    allow safety to be the primary measure, transportation engineers can
    modernize the foundational cost-benefit transportation measures and
    truly assess the costs America is now paying in lives. Growing
    communities like mine in Boise, Idaho, and smaller and rural
    communities I work with across the state and the country are ready to
    make the changes necessary to bring our road deaths down to zero, but
    we also realize we cannot do this alone. It will take action at the
    federal, state and local levels to reach this goal by removing
    barriers, changing the way we measure success, and inviting innovation
    where we have stagnated.
        This is why the National League of Cities and all the communities
    taking action on road safety applaud the focus on safer streets for all
    from Congress in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
    (IIJA) and USDOT with the new National Roadway Safety Strategy. The
    increase to state safety funding in IIJA especially through the Highway
    Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) was notable, and for communities, the
    new locally targeted safety program--the Safe Streets and Roads for All
    program--based on a Safe Systems approach will finally allow us to
    directly plan for and invest in needed safety projects all across the
    country in a condensed amount of time. Together with our regions and
    states, we hope to see what larger scale focus on safety might result
    in. We are also glad to see that Vulnerable Road User Assessments
    reporting will be done wholistically and hopefully in concert with
    State Safety Plans, that can be informed by our Local Road Safety
    Action Plans. Cities and towns have been focused on plans and
    implementing safety solutions for many years, but we must be clear that
    we have found our efforts often thwarted from moving forward due to
    barriers created by the Federal and state foundational transportation
    guides, plans, and processes.
        We also must be realistic that transportation safety has become an
    equity and resource issue where some disadvantaged neighborhoods,
    school districts, and cities were recipients of ``improvements'' that
    advantaged drivers traveling through their neighborhoods at the expense
    of residents. Additionally, when they could get safe designs adopted
    and approved, they could not pay for safety upgrades while others
    could, leading to higher death counts for many minorities and their
    communities. For example, one of the high-speed facilities was built on
    the edge of our downtown without marked safe crossings at most
    intersections so that drivers were not slowed. When the city attempted
    to add safer crossings, we were told there was no money and that it did
    not meet the benefit-cost test for drivers. It still haunts me today
    that a pedestrian was killed at one of those intersections, a woman
    about my age, and we still have not been able to add the needed safety
    infrastructure. The National League of Cities will continue to ask
    Congress to ensure that any modest increase in targeted safety Federal
    funds makes it to the cities who need it and that you use your
    authority to ensure changes to the measures and processes that
    determine the majority of the Federal funds through formulas so that
    proven safety countermeasures known to work on streets inside cities
    and towns are given equal footing if not priority.
    Recommendations
        As we move forward, one change we must all make was highlighted in
    the new USDOT National Roadway Safety Strategy. As policymakers, as
    drivers, as leaders--is to design and set policy that accepts our
    mistakes. Humans will absolutely make mistakes, but the consequences
    should not be deadly. This is the heart of the ``Safe System'' approach
    which works by building and reinforcing multiple layers of protection
    into our infrastructure to: 1) prevent crashes from happening in the
    first place and 2) minimize the harm caused to those involved when
    crashes do occur. The Safe System approach takes us back to the laws of
    physics--a pedestrian loses against a speeding car, a car loses against
    a larger truck, and even a truck against a train. It is a fatal
    combination of speed, weight, inertia, and impact. By addressing the
    design of our roadways through engineering and research that looks at
    the speed, angles, and weight of crashes, we can begin to layer more
    protections that we so clearly need. I want to be very clear--crashes
    are still going to happen, but we want our residents to be able to walk
    away from a crash and be grateful that the system prioritized them.

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        As we prioritize peoples' lives on our roads, the National League
    of Cities believes we should be open to analyzing if the structures we
    have put in place for roads are still serving us today, and we would
    like to share several opportunities for action both by Congress, the
    Administration, State Departments of Transportation, and the road
    safety community.

       Encourage clarity in infrastructure spending: Transparency
            is a powerful tool for instilling confidence in government
            investment as many communities from Georgia to California have
            seen with their infrastructure programs. Both Congress and
            USDOT lack granular clarity on formula funding provided
            primarily to State Departments of Transportation. With the
            flexibility and significant resources Congress has provided,
            funding recipients have a responsibility to show how the
            funding was invested and how progress has been made to ensure
            that the case for infrastructure investment is made clearly.

       Increase transportation support to small and rural local
            governments--America is a country built of small and suburban
            towns, and while they can clearly identify safety issues, many
            are not staffed or equipped to make the actual improvement
            themselves. The joint Local Technical Assistance support made
            available from the Federal and state levels far outstrips the
            needs of cities, towns and villages today. As an example, a
            small Idaho town that I assisted had a Public Works Director
            who was also the baseball coach and EMT. When we determined
            that the appropriate countermeasure included adding paint on
            one of the local streets, he brought out his baseball field
            striping machine to stripe the road. This is the same city that
            was supposed to maintain the pedestrian paint markings on the
            state highway because the DOT insisted the state highway's
            purpose did not include crossing pedestrians--that was a city
            need. In Idaho, our Local Highway Technical Assistance Council
            is far more resourced than have I seen in other states and
            might offer a model for how to get more of Federal and state
            resources to places that desperately need that capacity.

       Expedite data delivery to inform safety: The safety data
            reporting process moves quite slowly in a world that uses real
            time information. We are just seeing national data from 2021,
            and it is not yet complete or deemed ready for analysis. Yet
            right now, the FHWA, states, and researchers are seeking full
            and complete safety data sets in order to take on important
            Congressionally mandated tasks like the Vulnerable Road User
            Assessments and Vulnerable Road User Safety Special Rule. Given
            our road death rates, the U.S. cannot afford to delay
            prioritizing getting complete data sets ready for these
            assessments so we are not making today's decisions without
            complete information. NLC would also like to see more available
            Federal data sets from USDOT catch up to inform both current
            Vulnerable Road User Assessments and safety practices across
            regions so we can truly deliver safer streets for all.

       Shift measures for safety: What gets measured gets done, and
            the National League of Cities believes we should measure our
            progress in meeting our national safety goals. We also need to
            broaden our measures and leave behind the practice of using
            travel speed as the most important measure in a benefit-cost
            analysis. Analysis should address total travel time, impact on
            other users (including pedestrians, bicyclists and other
            drivers), average travel distance, and impact on travel
            distance and impact on the local economic output of the
            measures being recommended. When crashes do occur, states'
            processes and local first responders should prioritize
            consistent capture and reporting to ensure that more
            significant data is provided for research, including speed and
            roadway design factors such as visibility of users and roadway
            dimensions.

       Reconnect the virtuous cycle of federally funded research
            with updates to foundational transportation decision documents:
            Our transportation safety research investment from the Federal
            government cannot be disconnected from the data needed to
            update foundational Federal transportation decision documents,
            such as the USDOT Federal Highway Administration Manual on
            Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), which IIJA has now put
            a shot clock deadline on. Ensuring that research activities
            such as the National Cooperative Highway Research Program
            (NCHRP) are fully connected to the MUTCD Request to Experiment
            and providing more Crash Modification Factors could begin to
            close the safety research gap and take some of the cost burden
            off those who want to innovate. Tying Federal research funding
            to required updates to foundational and federally supported
            manuals and design guides is not only a best practice but a
            good use of taxpayer funding.

       Delineate MUTCD's purpose: NLC and our local partners have
            requested USDOT consider how the MUTCD can best fulfill its
            intended purpose in delivering consistent road signs, lines,
            and signals across the U.S. in the upcoming update as well as
            setting up a Federal advisory committee to provide more
            balanced perspective. However, what started as a basic
            manufacturing specification of roadway devices in the 1930s has
            been burdened by serving too many purposes that have
            substantial costs. Local governments have found that MUTCD in
            its current form and governance is a roadblock to safety
            improvements and innovation while it remains an essential tool
            that must be updated to provide the minimum necessary guidance
            for the uniformity of traffic control devices.

       Large vehicle design standards must be analyzed: USDOT's
            National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that
            pedestrians are two to three times as likely to die when hit by
            a pick-up or SUV than a passenger car, and that drivers of
            pickups and SUVS are three to four times more likely to hit a
            pedestrian while turning because of blind spots. Congress has
            the oversight to address this issue through vehicle design
            standards, road safety education, and even licensing. In Boise,
            we lost two citizens last year, a retired couple on their daily
            walk, who were hit by a turning pick-up whose driver did not
            see them. Both the driver and the car design are responsible to
            be able to see and safely respond to people outside the
            vehicle.

       Engage America's youth in safety and transportation
            alongside the international community: Road safety is an issue
            that spans farther than U.S. boarders, and it is essential that
            America's youth are able to travel safely. The United Nations
            has proclaimed a Decade of Action for Road Safety from 2021-
            2030, to target a reduction of road traffic deaths and injuries
            by 50 percent by 2030, and engaging our youth is a key way to
            join this effort. Reconnecting them with a variety of travel
            modes that allow them access and independence will enable the
            transportation system to serve all of us more efficiently while
            providing youth the value to engage in their communities and
            with peers around the world. As a life-long transportation
            nerd, I also would love to have more youth look at
            transportation as a future career that can change lives at home
            and offer an ability to learn from other places.

        Thank you for the opportunity to address the Committee, and I look
    forward to your questions.

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        The Chair. Thank you so much. Well, let's go to questions.
    Now, I know we have many members who have signed up, many of
    them remotely, but I am sure they will be coming on the screen.
    And we will start with questions with myself and then Senator
    Schmitt and so forth.
        So, I wanted to ask the nominees, you all mentioned safety
    and thank you for that. According to the latest report I
    mentioned in my opening statement, there were 13 completed
    items, but there are 30 recommendations. So one, how will you
    drive Amtrak to complete those items of safety and operations?
        And number two, obviously very concerned about the Western
    Empire Builder and Coastal Starlite Service that serves many
    communities. How will you each commit to protect the Nation's
    long distance service, particularly in the West?
        So. Mr. Capozzi, and then just down the line. Safety and
    service.
        Mr. Capozzi. In terms of long distance service, I have to
    say I value all types of train service that Amtrak offers, long
    distance, state supported, on the Northeast Corridor services.
        And I share your commitment to the long distance train
    service, and I would commit to that as a Board member. Equally
    as well as to security. Safety, security, and accessibility are
    kind of three legs to a stool, and I think they are all very
    important.
        The Chair. Mr. Lathem.
        Mr. Lathem. Preventive maintenance is very important to me.
    I think if we did a lot more preventive maintenance maybe we
    can handle some of the issues that come up. And long distance
    transportation is definitely important, so I support you in
    that area.
        The Chair. Thank you. Mr. Batory.
        Mr. Batory. Yes, Chair Cantwell. Safety never sleeps.
    Safety is the cornerstone of good business. Safety requires
    constant focus. And I have been committed to safety my entire
    railroad career and it is unwavering.
        In so far as the train network system of Amtrak, I am a
    proponent of the national network as related to long distance
    trains, state-supported trains, the Northeast Corridor, insofar
    as how it connects and creates a national network.
        The Chair. Thank you. Ms. Clegg.
        Ms. Clegg. Thank you, Chair Cantwell. I have worked on
    safety my whole career. Before this job, I worked on bicycle
    and pedestrian safety and transit safety, bringing forward the
    process that helped develop the safe systems approach that the
    FHWA is now using for those modes of travel.
        Safety is always top of mind. While at the National League
    of Cities GIS Committee, we worked with railroads and
    communities across the country to ensure that communication
    between the railroads and first responders was what it should
    be, so that if incidents did happen, those first responders
    could respond well, and we will bring that experience.
        As you know, I am from the West and very interested in
    expanding the long distance network, as well as making sure
    that it ties in well to the Northeast Corridor so that we have
    a connected system.
        Helping people get from one place to the other means not
    just one city to the next city, but from wherever they are to
    wherever they want to travel. And to do that, we need a much
    better connected system of travel on the railroads in the
    United States. I will work toward that.
        The Chair. Thank you. Well I appreciate your commitments. I
    am definitely going to ask a few more detailed questions on
    safety for the record, but I want to get your thoughts about
    the Cascade services, because pre-pandemic, you know, we had a
    lot of issues.
        We were able to restore, you know, Seattle to Portland, but
    there was a lot of banging on the door. And so this issue of
    where states have big concerns, how does Amtrak communicate to
    them and, you know, without having us be right in the middle of
    it. So right now, the Amtrak Cascade's trains only arrive on
    time 64 percent of the time.
        So this is the third worst performing state supported in
    the Nation and it is really unacceptable. So, what can you do
    to improve the performance of the Cascade route? Right down the
    line. Ms. Clegg, do you want to start this time?
        Ms. Clegg. Sure. You know, on time performance is a
    longstanding issue. I don't have any magic. I will add that in
    addition to living in the logging camp, my grandfather had to
    ride the logs down the river and deliver them to the mill.
        And when there was a logjam, he had to break it up. And he
    talked to me about how to do that. And he did it by looking at
    it from all perspectives, poking around, finding something that
    would move, seeing if he could get that move, and then the next
    thing, and the next thing.
        That is how I will approach these issues at Amtrak, poke
    around, ask a lot of questions, try to see what we can get
    moving.
        The Chair. Mr. Batory, on time service?
        Mr. Batory. Yes, Chair Cantwell. As far as the Pacific
    Northwest is concerned, I was somewhat surprised by hearing
    your remark that it was in the mid 60s.
        There is obviously a major opportunity for improvement, if
    that responsibility toward improvement resides with Amtrak and
    the host railroads. And that is where it should be addressed
    and that is where it needs to be resolved, not through third
    party intervention.
        The Chair. Thank you. Mr. Lathem.
        Mr. Lathem. I was thinking it still comes down to
    preventive maintenance. Not just the rails, the locomotives
    themselves, the depots to make sure that everything is
    operating the way it should be operating, especially the
    machinery which is preventive maintenance.
        The Chair. Thank you. Mr. Capozzi.
        Mr. Capozzi. I think it goes back to Amtrak's mission. And
    Amtrak's mission is to provide efficient and effective
    intercity passenger rail mobility consisting of high quality
    service that is trip time competitive with other intercity
    travel options.
        And, you know, I think we need to be driven by the mission
    to ensure that we meet that, you know, through all facets of
    Amtrak travel.
        The Chair. Thank you. Thank you all. Mister--Senator
    Schmitt.
        Senator Schmitt. Thank you. Mr. Lathem, I do have a couple
    of questions for you. According to public reporting, in 2009,
    you traveled with a three person delegation of union leaders to
    Venezuela to explore the possibility of trade or exchange
    directly between Venezuela and the Port of Wilmington. You
    attended this trip, correct?
        Mr. Lathem. Yes.
        Senator Schmitt. OK. The Venezuelan government funded the
    trip?
        Mr. Lathem. No.
        Senator Schmitt. OK. In a previous interview, you said yes.
        Mr. Lathem. A Government funded trip?
        Senator Schmitt. Yes. The Venezuelan government funded the
    trip.
        Mr. Lathem. Oh, yes. The Venezuelan government, yes.
        Senator Schmitt. Did you meet with Hugo Chavez while you
    were on the trip?
        Mr. Lathem. Yes.
        Senator Schmitt. OK. Did you also attend a Chavez rally
    while you were there?
        Mr. Lathem. Yes.
        Senator Schmitt. OK. You told the Delaware News Journal at
    the time that based on what they have done in this state, they
    have been very benevolent, referring to the Venezuelan regime
    which had sent millions of gallons of free or discounted oil to
    Delaware in an effort to embarrass the Bush Administration.
    Would you still characterize the Chavez regime as benevolent?
        Mr. Lathem. No, I have never said they were benevolent.
        Senator Schmitt. OK. Well, we are happy to get you----
        Mr. Lathem. I didn't support the regime then and I don't
    support it now. My understanding was, is that--I don't remember
    whether it was a Kennedy or not. He was getting oil from
    Venezuela. He was giving the people that didn't have the means
    to get oil. I had nothing to do with it. That is just my
    understanding of what the situation was.
        Senator Schmitt. OK. And then the next year--well, in 2011,
    you went back, is that right?
        Mr. Lathem. Yes.
        Senator Schmitt. As part of a delegation of the African
    Socialist International?
        Mr. Lathem. Again, was invited, yes.
        Senator Schmitt. OK. Are you familiar with the political
    opinions of the ASI?
        Mr. Lathem. No.
        Senator Schmitt. OK. Well, ASI explicitly said it went to
    Venezuela, the trip that you were on, to express our unity--
    ``to express our unity and support for comrade Hugo Chavez in
    his efforts to lead Venezuela in the nationalization of its
    resources and the resistance to U.S. imperialism's attempt to
    control those resources.'' You find that statement concerning?
        Mr. Lathem. Again, I went as a guest of President of the
    Building Trades of Delaware.
        Senator Schmitt. OK. Mr. Batory, I do want to ask you
    what--you know, I expressed some concerns about some geographic
    imbalance with the Board and not adequately representing the
    Midwest. What perspective would you bring to make sure the
    interests of Missourians are considered on this Board?
        Mr. Batory. Senator, I am quite familiar with the existing
    network, as well as the legacy or history of that network. It
    has been rationalized, OK, over its 50 years of plus of
    history.
        There is opportunity nationally because geographic
    populations have changed. We nationally have a service between
    Chicago and St. Louis and then to Kansas City with the nickname
    of the Mule----
        Senator Schmitt. The River Runner.
        Mr. Batory. The Mules there between Kansas City and St.
    Louis. And there is a lot of opportunity for improvement,
    especially from St. Louis to Kansas City, in so far as hosting
    and train operations.
        There is definitely a physical plan improvement
    considerable between Chicago and St. Louis, with speeds up as
    high as 110 mile an hour and it is operated quite well. It has
    some degradation of recent.
        But those are opportunities that exist throughout the
    national network. And I think we need to look at them, to seize
    those opportunities, and spend our money wisely.
        Senator Schmitt. OK. Thank you, Madam Chair.
        The Chair. Thank you, Senator Schmitt. Senator
    Hickenlooper.

                 STATEMENT OF HON. JOHN HICKENLOOPER,
                       U.S. SENATOR FROM COLORADO

        Senator Hickenlooper. Thank you, Madam Chair. I thank all
    of you for being here today, but also for your commitment to
    public service. We will start with--I have got a few questions,
    so I will--try and keep the answer relatively short.
        I will start with Ms. Clegg. And you talked a little bit
    about the importance of long distance rail in the West and
    access in Idaho. Obviously, the California Zephyr Amtrak route
    passes through Colorado, connecting the West Coast to the
    Midwest.
        Additional--potentially, additional service in Colorado
    along the Front Range Corridor really up, probably up into
    Cheyenne, Wyoming would provide additional economic
    opportunities, expand transit options for communities along the
    entire route.
        Looking at Idaho, the Front Range of Colorado and Wyoming,
    if you are confirmed, do you know, is there a way to begin the
    process of looking at these routes and the expansion of--the
    potential expansion of Amtrak routes?
        Ms. Clegg. Chair Cantwell, Senator Hickenlooper absolutely
    there is a way, and I think that it starts with what you help
    form in Colorado with Front Range Commission.
        Those local groups that bring the local expertise and
    knowledge of what is happening in their region, can band
    together and put in for a corridor identification program
    applications such as the Big Sky Rail Authority did in Montana.
        Such as the City of Boise, City of Salt Lake, and cities in
    between are reapplying for in the Idaho, Utah region. If we get
    some train on the track, and including from Pueblo to Cheyenne,
    then there--it will make so much sense to connect those to the
    longer distance network.
        I am excited that the FRA long distance study is--has
    identified the old Pioneer route, the Desert Wind route, the
    route from not just Pueblo to Cheyenne, but all the way to
    Billings as potential expansion, and we will work toward those.
        Senator Hickenlooper. Great. I appreciate that and I agree
    wholeheartedly. Mr. Lathem, the FRA, the Federal Railroad
    Administration, completed a safety audit of Amtrak in November
    2022. Found a strong culture of safety at Amtrak, but you know,
    there is room for improvement.
        The report recommended that Amtrak improve its equipment
    testing, focus on--additionally focus on worker safety. If you
    are confirmed, how could you ensure Amtrak continues to build
    on safety culture and prioritize the recommendations from the
    FRA safety audit that still remain outstanding?
        [Technical problems.]
        Mr. Lathem. Are we making it a priority and are we
    fulfilling the mission of which we have as a Board to make sure
    that safety is a priority.
        Senator Hickenlooper. OK. I couldn't agree more. I
    appreciate your history of emphasizing worker safety along the
    way. Mr. Capozzi, in your testimony, you highlighted the
    importance of ensuring Amtrak's services remain accessible to
    passengers with different--differing abilities.
        The Americans with Disabilities Act is one of the
    cornerstones for equity in the United States. And I think
    recognizing the leadership of Senator Duckworth here in the
    Senate, the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 includes strong
    protections for airline passengers with disabilities.
        Mr. Capozzi, if you are confirmed, would you commit to
    Amtrak and its participation in the Passenger Rail Advisory
    Committee that it is responsive to the concerns raised by
    passengers with disabilities?
        Mr. Capozzi. Absolutely. I mean, that has been my career
    and that will be my focus on the Amtrak Board, if I am
    confirmed.
        Senator Hickenlooper. I appreciate you and all your history
    of service along this--on these issues.
        Mr. Capozzi. Thank you.
        Senator Hickenlooper. Mr. Batory, I am very proud, I think,
    to get all four questions in. Amtrak's financial reporting
    indicates 80 percent of the losses in Fiscal Year 2023 were
    from the long distance service or the service corridors.
        Clearly, though, communities along existing and future long
    distance routes, especially in the Mountain West, benefit
    significantly from reliable passenger rail service. So, Mr.
    Batory, what can we learn from Amtrak's history operating long
    distance service routes to ensure that we grow the network
    while maintaining financial sustainability?
        Mr. Batory. Thank you for that question, Senator. There is
    continuous, if you will, evolution of questions and answers
    that have to be addressed at any scheduled network. Long
    distance trains being a major component of that. And that needs
    to continue.
        With that continuation, I am of the belief that long
    distance trains are an integral part of tying this country
    together, as I mentioned earlier, with all the state-supported
    services, as well as the Northeast Corridor.
        There are lessons to be learned every day, every year. And
    from those lessons learned, OK, you want to build upon what we
    learned and make improvements, and not accept status quo as
    being the norm.
        Senator Hickenlooper. Great. I would like to put an
    exclamation point behind that statement.
        Mr. Batory. Thank you.
        Senator Hickenlooper. Thank you all for your service. Madam
    Chair.
        The Chair. Thank you so much. Senator Fischer.

                    STATEMENT OF HON. DEB FISCHER,
                       U.S. SENATOR FROM NEBRASKA

        Senator Fischer. Thank you, Madam Chair, and thank you for
    holding this hearing today. Mr. Batory and Mr. Capozzi, I
    recently introduced the Amtrak Transparency Act. This
    legislation's goal is to improve transparency within Amtrak's
    Board of Directors and increase opportunities for stakeholder
    input into Amtrak's decisionmaking processes.
        The legislation aims to build public trust and ensure that
    Amtrak's governance aligns the highest standards of
    accountability, particularly given its reliance on taxpayer
    funding.
        If confirmed, how would you work to improve to increase
    transparency and accountability by the Amtrak Board?
        Mr. Capozzi. I will go first. Thank you for that question.
    I am familiar with the legislation, and I understand that
    compensation and awards are a very complex and personal issue.
    I also understand the need to retain highly performing
    employees, but I also understand the need for transparency, and
    I really support that.
        And I understand that Amtrak has already provided some
    information publicly. I would like to see that actually a
    little bit more transparent so that it is more discoverable on
    its website.
        Mr. Lathem. I support more transparency.
        Senator Fischer. That would be good. That would be good. We
    appreciate that. You know, earlier this year, Senator Cruz and
    I, we sent that letter to the Chairman questioning how Amtrak
    gave $75 million in bonus payments despite a $1.75 billion net
    loss.
        And Amtrak did announce that it would begin to publicly
    share the bonuses it awarded to executives. Mr. Batory and Ms.
    Clegg, if confirmed, would you commit to increased transparency
    regarding those bonuses and be able to not just provide the
    transparency on the amount, but why such bonuses were given in
    the amounts that they were?
        Mr. Batory. Thank you, Senator Fischer, for that question.
    Yes, to your questions. Executive compensation, incentive
    compensation is nothing new, but as far as my experience,
    especially in the private sector, OK, the disclosure is very
    transparent. Not only the monetary amounts, but the methodology
    in which it is applied, and I see no reason why Amtrak wouldn't
    follow such a model.
        Senator Fischer. Thank you. Ms. Clegg.
        Ms. Clegg. Thank you, Chair Cantwell, Senator. I have
    always served on boards that have open meeting law requirements
    and have never had any problem with transparency in those
    situations.
        Would continue to be open to exploring that for the Amtrak
    Board. As far as the executive compensation, I think, you know,
    if you look at the system of executive compensation around the
    country, the fact that Amtrak has it is not the issue.
        The issue might be from a Board position, if I am
    confirmed, what are the incentives? What are the outcomes where
    after--how do they compare to the financials of the
    organization? As a Board member, I think it is fine to give
    executive compensation.
        That is what private sector does around this country. But
    making sure that you are doing it in a way that is both
    responsible and brings the outcomes that you need is the issue,
    as far as I can see.
        Senator Fischer. If any of the members of the panel who are
    before us today, have any of you gotten information on what the
    reason was for that amount being given as bonuses to those
    individuals? I can't see you. So if you could just go down the
    row and be able to answer that, please.
        Ms. Clegg. Senator, this is Elaine Clegg. And no, I don't.
    But if I am confirmed to the Amtrak Board, I can assure you
    that I will know next time.
        Senator Fischer. Thank you.
        Mr. Batory. No, Senator, nothing was disclosed to me
    preceding this hearing. But should I be confirmed, it would
    definitely be of my interest, and I think the colleagues of the
    Board to know not only the monetary amounts, but what
    constitute those monetary amounts and does the methodology
    follow good business practice.
        Senator Fischer. OK.
        Mr. Lathem. Senator, no.
        Senator Fischer. Next.
        Mr. Capozzi. No, Senator, I haven't had any previous
    discussion.
        Senator Fischer. OK. Thank you. I know that the Amtrak
    Board of Directors, they do not conduct open meetings as other
    federally chartered entities do.
        And my legislation would expand the Board meeting
    requirements to include representatives from state sponsored
    and long distance routes, as well as rail passenger groups that
    have a keen interest in Amtrak decisions.
        I would ask to all nominees if confirmed, would you commit
    to working with stakeholders like State DOTs and rail groups so
    that they can have a seat at the table?
        Mr. Capozzi. I will go first. This is David. I think public
    outreach is one way that Amtrak can improve its standing with
    all parts of the community, including the disability community.
        And in fact, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act now
    requires that Amtrak Board meet at least annually with
    representatives of Amtrak's employees, representatives of
    people with disabilities, and the general public to discuss
    financial performance and service results, and more meetings
    like that I think would be very helpful.
        Senator Fischer. Including our State DOTs and rail groups?
        Mr. Capozzi. Absolutely.
        Mr. Lathem. Meeting with stakeholders is always important.
        Mr. Batory. Yes, Senator Fischer, I concur with that
    approach. I think the more communication you have with real
    advocacy groups, as well as with real labor, and definitely the
    State DOTs, would be beneficial to the overall network of
    Amtrak.
        Ms. Clegg. Senator, I have always worked collaboratively.
    That is the way that I have learned I can get things done. Over
    the last three years, I have worked closely with many of those
    advocacy groups. I know them well. I would continue to
    communicate with them.
        I believe it is in Amtrak's best interests to create good
    relationships and good communication with all groups, including
    State DOTs and local commissions, as well as the advocacy
    groups.
        Senator Fischer. Thank you. Thank you all very much, and
    thank you, Madam Chair.
        The Chair. Thank you, Senator. Senator Markey, are you
    ready to go? OK. Senator Markey.

                   STATEMENT OF HON. EDWARD MARKEY,
                    U.S. SENATOR FROM MASSACHUSETTS

        Senator Markey. Thank you, Madam Chair. Welcome. The
    bipartisan infrastructure law ushered in an historic era of
    investment for passenger rail in the United States. This
    funding is already at work building new rail corridors,
    expanding rail service.
        It is really doing a great job, and the President deserves
    all of the credit in the world for helping to lead us. And we
    thank you, Madam Chair, for all of your work as well.
        So for each of the nominees, please answer yes or no, do
    you agree that in order for passenger rail to succeed in this
    country, it needs reliable, sustainable funding, building on
    the investments of the bipartisan infrastructure law?
        Mr. Capozzi. I will start and yes, but I also want----
        Senator Markey. Yes or no.
        Mr. Capozzi. I also want to congratulate you on all of your
    years of service on behalf of people with disabilities and for
    your commitment to accessibility.
        Senator Markey. Thank you. Thank you. I guess we will allow
    that.
        [Laughter.]
        Senator Markey. Thank you, Mr. Capozzi. Mr. Lathem.
        Mr. Lathem. Yes.
        Mr. Batory. Yes.
        Ms. Clegg. Yes. Probably the most important thing.
        Senator Markey. The most important thing. So, Mr. Batory,
    do you agree, yes or no, that the number one priority for
    Amtrak must be safety?
        Mr. Batory. Unequivocally, yes.
        Senator Markey. When it comes to trains, safety must be our
    top priority. There is no better way to ensure the safety of
    both passengers and the communities nearby railroad tracks than
    to have a well-resourced, experienced rail workforce.
        This committee has heard over and over again that having
    multiple crew members on the train in East Palestine increased
    safety and help prevent the disaster from being even worse. And
    the Federal Railroad Administration's objective research on
    this issue is even clearer.
        When the FRA has--while the FRA has found that technology
    can make our trains safer, it also found that technology is no
    replacement by having multiple crew members on each freight
    train.
        And despite these safety benefits, when you led the Federal
    Railroad Administration, you rolled back the requirement that
    freight trains have two person crews. So Mr. Batory, yes or no,
    do you believe that it is safe to allow one person to operate a
    two mile long train?
        Mr. Batory. Senator, I will just answer it this way. I have
    no ``yes or no'' answer because I do not believe that there is
    a uniform crew size that fits the entire network in the United
    States of America.
        I will say though that we do have a very effective tool
    called--from Congress called the Railway Labor Act. It is 98
    years old, and I used it all 46 years of my railroad career
    successfully, and that was seeing rail labor and railroads
    negotiate working conditions, benefits, as well as
    compensation, and that is where it belongs.
        Senator Markey. Well, Mr. Batory----
        Mr. Batory. And that is how we achieved what we achieved
    today in the way of crews size from five and six people down to
    two to three today----
        Senator Markey. Well, I think----
        Mr. Batory.--and the people closest to the railroad
    industry----
        Senator Markey.--you talk about collective bargaining, but
    then are responsible for making sure that there's safety, you
    know--that we put safety number one. You already agreed on
    that.
        Mr. Batory. I will never compromise safety.
        Senator Markey. Well, you were the top rail safety
    regulator at the time. I need to know whether you thought
    allowing fewer people to operate long, dangerous trains made
    the system safer? So let's review, Mr. Batory, what the
    research from FRA actually says.
        Multiple reports over the past decade found that technology
    simply cannot replace the safety benefits of having a multi-
    person crew aboard a train.
        Those reports found that the technology that the railroads
    say can replace certified conductors does not check alertness
    or fatigue of the engineer, does not assist with physically
    demanding tasks like securing a train with handbrakes during an
    emergency, and does not assist the engineer when complying with
    restricted speed zones and avoiding on-tracked collisions.
        In fact, operating the technology can actually distract an
    engineer from what is happening outside of the train. From
    Quebec to North Dakota, we have seen over and over how expert
    teams of crew members can save lives.
        And that is why I am so proud to say that my provision to
    require two person crews on freight trains was included in the
    Railway Safety Act. We thank you, Madam Chair, and I will
    always work to ensure safety is our top rail priority, whether
    those trains carry freight or passengers.
        I think it is imperative for us, and it is actually why I
    was working with Senator Vance on including that language in
    the bill. That is about as bipartisan on this committee as you
    are ever going to get.
        The Chair. Thank you, Senator.
        Senator Markey. So it is imperative that we move forward,
    and I thank you, Madam Chair.
        The Chair. Thank you, Senator Markey. Thank you for that
    important leadership. Senator Moran.

                    STATEMENT OF HON. JERRY MORAN,
                        U.S. SENATOR FROM KANSAS

        Senator Moran. Chair Cantwell, thank you. I welcome our
    nominees and thank you for your willingness to serve. We have
    had a conversation with about every nominee that has been in
    front of this committee since I have been on it, which is now
    years, regarding--in regard to long distance or long distance
    passenger rail service.
        And several of you are returnees who have answered my
    question before so I will ask for you to recommit to long
    distance passenger service? And I will ask the two others to
    tell me what their views are on the importance of that long
    distance passenger rail service?
        I am pleased that we have a university resolved panel in
    front of us. Diversity meeting geographic, and the President
    has made nominations that are now in compliance with the law
    that require there be a broader spectrum than just members of
    this Amtrak Board that live in the Northeast Corridor.
        So, Mr. Capozzi, when you testified before the Committee in
    2022, you shared, I am quoting you, ``I support your
    commitment,'' speaking of mine, ``to a long distance train
    service, and that it is accessible to everybody.'' Is that
    still true? Anything you would want to add to that to further
    make sure I don't put a hold on your nomination?
        Mr. Capozzi. That is still true. Senator, thank you.
        Senator Moran. Thank you. And the same for Mr. Lathem. You
    answered in response to that ``committed.'' Anything you want
    to expand that or any reason that I should have any doubt about
    your commitment?
        Mr. Lathem. No, Senator.
        Senator Moran. And so that leaves me with the two
    additional nominees. Mr. Batory and Ms. Clegg, tell me what
    your commitment is to long distance passenger rail service, and
    tell me--and in Kansas to do that--to us, that generally means
    the Southwest Chief and in the future, potentially the
    Heartland Flyer. What should I know about your work on the
    Board that would assure me that long distance passenger service
    is a priority for you? Ms. Clegg.
        Ms. Clegg. Chair Cantwell, Senator Moran, I have been
    working for the last three years to expand the long distance
    system. Absolutely, the Northeast Corridor is important to
    Amtrak, but without that connecting long distance system, it
    doesn't serve all of the Americans in the United States. And
    this is an American system, not a Northeast system.
        As to the Southwest Chief and the others in this Southwest
    absolutely committed to improving service to them, but also to
    adding service by adding new connecting routes that will make
    that service more useful to the residents of the Southwest.
        Senator Moran. That is exactly the circumstance we have in
    Kansas. Thank you. Mr. Batory.
        Mr. Batory. Yes, Senator. Proponent of long distance
    service. A particular example that associated with your state
    was the Southwest Chief. And we worked very hard with Amtrak to
    ensure that positive train control was being implemented to
    ensure that the Southwest Chief would not be bifurcated, if you
    will, and continue its operation.
        And I think that the national network of 15 long distance
    trains, OK, naturally require review, not unlike all the state-
    supported trains and those on the Northeast Corridor. Nothing
    ever stays the same. It requires continuous review.
        And but it does create a network for this country, and
    every effort should be made to maintain that network, and long
    distance trains play a vital role.
        Senator Moran. I am going to take the four of your
    statements as satisfactory by my standard, and I look forward
    to your confirmation on the Senate floor.
        This issue arose for me just for a moment of history when
    the six Senators, two from New Mexico, two from Colorado, and
    two from Kansas, met with a former CEO of Amtrak in which, in
    an offhand statement, indicated that the plan was to put bus
    service between Garden City and Tucumcari.
        It caught me by surprise, and it absolutely made no sense
    to me that anybody is going to get on the Southwest Chief in
    Chicago and go to Garden City, Kansas, and get off and get on a
    bus. And so, this attitude or approach to just, in my view,
    dismissing Southwest Chief and particularly long distance
    service in such a cavalier manner--when there are problems and
    we are working to provide resources, that means dollars to the
    railroads and to Amtrak to improve those that track.
        But it doesn't mean such a dramatic and actually non-real
    solution to whatever problem existed at the time. And I am
    committed myself to trying to make certain that that kind of
    cavalier approach would not be supported by any member of the
    Amtrak Board. So thank you for what you had to say, and I wish
    you well.
        The Chair. Thank you, Senator Moran. Senator Peters.

                    STATEMENT OF HON. GARY PETERS,
                       U.S. SENATOR FROM MICHIGAN

        Senator Peters. Thank you, Madam Chair. And welcome to each
    of our nominees. Congratulations on your nomination and your
    willingness to serve in this important role.
        I chair the Surface Transportation Subcommittee of this
    Full Committee and in July, I convened a field hearing in
    Lansing, Michigan to discuss investments made by the bipartisan
    infrastructure law, including passenger rail, which was a
    significant part. I believe it is a really exciting time in
    Michigan right now for train travel.
        And specifically, we received a Corridor ID grant to
    explore increasing intercity passenger rail along every major
    route in our state and potentially, and this is very exciting,
    expanding the Wolverine line into Windsor, Canada.
        This would mean returning passenger rail to the historic
    and recently renovated, beautifully renovated Michigan Central
    Station in downtown Detroit. So my first question is for you,
    Mr. Batory. I know you are a Michigan native as well, and
    that's a great credential to have, but I may--I am a huge
    advocate for passenger rail in Michigan, which is why I am
    working right now to secure $2 million to fund the development
    of a new intermodal bus and passenger rail facility at that
    Michigan Central Station, as well as a new station in Ann
    Arbor.
        This summer, Michigan Central Station reopened its doors
    for the first time since 1967, and this new state of the art
    complex not only includes a rehabilitated transit station, but
    also research and development facilities where the future of
    urban transit is being designed, as well as being tested.
        Now that we are beginning to see the early success of this
    rehabilitation project, I think it is critical that we work to
    restore Amtrak's presence in Central--at the Central Michigan--
    Michigan Central Station and make service between Detroit and
    Windsor, Canada a reality.
        So my question for you is, if confirmed, will you support
    efforts to reestablish service to Michigan Central Station and
    expand Amtrak service routes throughout Michigan?
        Mr. Batory. Yes, Senator, I would. And I think there is an
    opportunity for us to provide a service that is better than
    what it was once known to be.
        Senator Peters. Good. Well, and if confirmed, I will look
    forward to working closely with you to make that happen. Ms.
    Clegg, expanding rail service to places like Michigan can and
    should include international rail travel, which is why I am so
    excited about this Windsor opportunity.
        And as Chair of Homeland Security and Government Affairs, I
    am committed to working with all of the agencies involved to
    make sure that we can do that in a timely manner, as we cross
    international borders would require that kind of coordination.
        So given your work, Ms. Clegg, in the Mountain West and in
    the Pacific Northwest, can you discuss the feasibility of
    coordinating rail travel across our Northern border? And do you
    think progress has been made on models that will allow that to
    actually happen?
        Ms. Clegg. Chair Cantwell, Senator Peters, absolutely. In
    Chair Cantwell's state of Washington, the state and the states
    of Oregon and the province of British Columbia are working hard
    to extend service regularly from Portland all the way to
    Vancouver.
        As part of that, they are working on a system where that
    cross-border customs work will be done very quickly, very
    seamlessly as part of the trip and not take more time.
        So I think there are examples of that happening. I think
    for our train system to be effective across North America, I
    think we need to expand those examples, and I am really happy
    to hear that Windsor is in the mix here.
        Senator Peters. Yes. Definitely is. And we are so exciting
    about that route. I just see this amazing corridor because we
    have the train now from Detroit to Chicago. So from Chicago to
    Detroit, to Windsor, and then Toronto.
        I think that would be an amazing economic corridor to
    develop. And if you have got two major financial centers like
    Chicago and Toronto connected together and coming through
    Detroit, it will be a powerful driver. Kind of like the
    corridor we see here on the East Coast. Two major--three major
    cities all connected with high speed rail ultimately would be
    amazing.
        So my last question is for both you, Ms. Clegg and Mr.
    Capozzi. I serve on the Senate Appropriations committee, and I
    am supporting an increase in Amtrak funding for the next fiscal
    year.
        And I believe this money will allow Amtrak to sustain
    operations and maintain a state of good repair, and safely get
    passengers to their destination. So quickly, if both of you who
    could discuss the importance of adequate funding in the
    remaining time, which is limited?
        Ms. Clegg. Senator Peters, adequate funding is vital for
    Amtrak to continue to provide good service. Not just adequate
    but stable, being able to count on it not being an annual
    appropriation.
        Senator Peters. Great. Mr. Capozzi.
        Mr. Capozzi. I would agree with that and especially in
    terms of accessibility. So Amtrak, as I said in my testimony,
    has about a third of its stations that fully meet the
    accessibility requirements under the ADA. And in order to get
    that to 100 percent, which is a goal publicly stated by Amtrak
    is 2029, is going to take a lot of money and a lot of
    commitment to make that happen. So, absolutely, you know, full
    funding is absolutely critical.
        Senator Peters. Right. Thank you. Thank you, Madam Chair.
        The Chair. Thank you, Senator Peters. I don't see any of
    our colleagues on the other side. I know Senator Blackburn was
    on the screen, but I don't see her now. So I am going to turn
    to Senator Welch.

                    STATEMENT OF HON. PETER WELCH,
                       U.S. SENATOR FROM VERMONT

        Senator Welch. Thank you very much, Madam Chair. And
    congratulations to all of you. Amtrak is incredibly important
    to us in Vermont, as it is to citizens all across the country.
    But I really appreciate your service, and it is very, very,
    very important. Couple of questions that I have.
        One is, we have had a lot of flooding in Vermont in the
    last couple of years and it has done a lot of damage to our
    tracks. There has been a number of delays in getting them
    repaired. It obviously has a huge impact on commerce and on
    travel.
        And it raises the question that is being asked around the
    country about these weather events that are more frequent and
    more extreme. So I will ask a question, but all of you can
    think about it.
        To Ms. Clegg, what kind of steps will Amtrak be taking to
    adjust frankly to the extreme weather events that are certainly
    occurring often in Vermont, and I know in many other parts of
    the country?
        Ms. Clegg. Chair Cantwell, Senator Welch, you know, I don't
    have a lot of expertise in that particular issue. I will commit
    to you that when I am confirmed to the Amtrak Board, I will dig
    in and find an answer, and work on it. As I mentioned earlier,
    I am not ever satisfied with just letting things be as they
    are. And this is certainly something that we need to work on.
        Senator Welch. You know, I appreciate that. I just would
    ask all of you, obviously safety is a major concern for you and
    the weather events are going to affect safety. But it really
    does, I think, raise different kinds of questions about
    resiliency and how you do repair in a way that hopefully will
    get us through the next storm.
        A second issue that is really important for us in Vermont
    is the capacity of parents with young children and babies to
    change their babies. I mean, this is really, really important
    in order to have train travel be practical.
        Twenty-eight million passenger trips in 48 states, the
    average duration of a trip on Amtrak miles traveled route, the
    Northeast Regional, last about three and a half to eight hours
    and most babies need to be changed every two hours, as you
    probably remember in the old days, many of you.
        With Senator Blackburn, she and I have introduced the Baby
    Changing on Board Act bipartisan bill that would require all
    trains owned and operated by Amtrak to have a baby changing
    station in every accessible restroom marked with clear signage.
    I would just ask each of you, would you each be doing all it
    you can?
        There is practical challenges to the implementation that
    would be the responsibility of Amtrak to adjust to, but that
    commitment to having that opportunity, the baby changing
    station for folks who are on these long rides didn't last
    longer than their baby can hold out.
        Mr. Capozzi. So, this is David.
        Senator Welch. Yes.
        Mr. Batory. If I can go first. So I am familiar with the
    legislation, and I understand the need for it as being the
    father of triplets. I am sorry, I know how often kids have to
    get changed. The one thing that I would underscore, and I think
    there is a need for perhaps technical assistance in this area
    is when I was at the access board, providing baby changing
    tables and accessible restrooms often became problematic if
    they weren't installed properly because they would intrude on
    the clear floor space.
        Senator Welch. Right. No, I understand----
        Mr. Capozzi. So I think that is an important consideration
    as well.
        Senator Welch. Look, there is practical problems, but what
    I am hearing from you are--you realize it is a practical
    problem----
        Mr. Capozzi. Absolutely.
        Senator Welch.--for parents to travel. I am not going to go
    down the line because I am hoping that everyone would be as
    supportive as possible to deal with the practical challenges. I
    do want--Mr. Batory, I want to ask you about preclearance. We
    have a great train that we want--it goes to Montreal.
        Preclearance will make a huge difference and for the ease
    of travel, so you don't have those long lockups at the border.
    And the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act required that
    Amtrak, in cooperation with the Department of Transportation
    and other Federal and Canadian entities, to issue a report with
    recommendations on how to improve cross-border train service.
        This is really huge for us in Vermont. And if confirmed,
    Mr. Batory, will you commit to working with me and my
    colleagues to establish a preclearance facility? We need a
    facility in expedite travel between Vermont and Canada.
        Mr. Batory. Senator being a victim, if you will, on rail
    travel cross-border as far as delays, yes, you have my full
    commitment.
        Senator Welch. Thank you very much. Madam Chair, I yield
    back.
        The Chair. Thank you so much. I am not seeing any of our
    other colleagues on the other side. I turn to Senator
    Klobuchar.

                   STATEMENT OF HON. AMY KLOBUCHAR,
                      U.S. SENATOR FROM MINNESOTA

        Senator Klobuchar. Well, thank you. And thank you, Madam
    Chair, for this hearing. And everything has been said, but I
    haven't said it. That is our line in the Senate. And so, I had
    some other things, but I am proud to be here with all of you.
    Big fan of train travel and Amtrak.
        As I always say, it is one way my husband and I can take a
    vacation and not get into an argument about directions, which I
    like. And I have been a big believer from the day that we first
    went to Milwaukee.
        My mom, that is where her parents were from. And so, we
    would always take the train, it was then the Milwaukee Road, to
    Wisconsin twice a year. And I knew every town along the route
    and got to meet the conductor and everything else.
        So aside from those romantic memories and the like, I think
    that so much of the argument we can make now is also an
    economic argument. And I guess I would start with you, Ms.
    Clegg. The Empire Builder Route is one of Amtrak's longest rail
    lines from Chicago to the West Coast, provides the vital link
    for many rural towns in Minnesota.
        The rail line contributes approximately $327 million to the
    economies of the states in which it operates. And Ms. Clegg,
    you noted that the Empire Builder is the only passenger service
    in your home state of Idaho with just one remote stop.
        Can you speak to the economic importance of long distance
    routes for rural and frontier communities? Of course, we are
    very excited that we have now added another route from
    Minneapolis, from St. Paul, actually, to Chicago. And the
    numbers seem really good so far, but Ms. Clegg, if you could
    answer.
        Ms. Clegg. Thank you, Chair Cantwell, Senator Klobuchar.
    Long distance service is incredibly important to the economic
    vitality of the West.
        In addition to the things that you noted on the Empire
    Builder that are economically important to Minnesota, I note
    that that route also serves a national park in North Dakota
    that otherwise wouldn't have many visitors. It also serves
    Glacier National Park in Northern Montana, as well as the town
    of Whitefish.
        The town of Sandpoint, although it only arrives in the
    middle of the night, is in the area in Northern Idaho that is
    much visited by a lot of tourists, resort area. And so, just
    that alone creates economic vitality.
        And the other thing that is important about that route that
    I think is instructive for how new routes in the West could
    work is that it also serves as a commuter route, long distance
    commuter route for many of the small communities along that
    route.
        People who live in a remote area can still work in a place
    that is far away because of that train. So absolutely
    important.
        Senator Klobuchar. It is one of the reasons I have been
    advocating for this route. There is track already there between
    the Twin Cities and Duluth. And actually it was a priority of
    DOT, and I have talked to Secretary Buttigieg about it, called
    the Northern Lights Express, nice name, and it would be a very,
    very good thing and a good deal. So we are still trying to get
    this done.
        Ms. Clegg. And congratulations on this success of the
    Borealis. It is great.
        Senator Klobuchar. Yes. Thank you for knowing the name of
    it. Another interesting light concept. I guess I go to you, Mr.
    Capozzi, on that. As noted, Amtrak launched the new Borealis
    route. It is the first time in 45 years that there has been
    twice daily trains from St. Paul to Chicago. Stops in Winona,
    Red Wing. Stops in Wisconsin.
        As I noted, the ridership has exceeded expectations by as
    much as 27 percent, with over 47,000 riders from May to July.
    If confirmed, would you commit to work to improve and maintain
    passenger rail on these types of routes?
        Mr. Capozzi. Yes, absolutely. As we talked before, you
    know, I support long distance travel or long distance routes,
    state-supported routes, the Northeast Corridor. It is--Amtrak
    is a national network, absolutely.
        Senator Klobuchar. Good. Anyone--want to add anything?
        Mr. Lathem. Senator Klobuchar, let me just say, you were
    one of my sheroes until Vice President Kamala came, but you
    still are.
        [Laughter.]
        Senator Klobuchar. Oh, thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
        Mr. Lathem. Absolutely, I will support it.
        Senator Klobuchar. All right. Very good. Mr. Batory.
        Mr. Batory. Yes, Senator. The 100 percent increase in
    frequency with the new service between Chicago and Minneapolis
    I think is a good news story. You know, time and distance
    breeds variability.
        The Seattle, Chicago train actually has delay, but with its
    shorter distance route between Minneapolis, St. Paul, and
    Chicago, I think you will see better regular service in that
    corridor, and it will grow.
        Senator Klobuchar. Yes. And, you know, speaking of that, I
    know that Amtrak experienced its best operational performance
    ever in 2018, but they are still on time. I have had good
    fortune in the corridor, you know, when I go to visit friends
    or the like.
        I was just in New York, and it goes well. I like it and it
    is on time, but there have always been those issues. And just
    talk about maybe you, Mr. Capozzi, what you think we need to do
    to improve on time?
        Mr. Capozzi. Part of the issue obviously is just outside
    the Northeast Corridor, you know, we are reliant on other rail
    providers, and so that is an ongoing issue. And that is going
    to take conversation, commitment, and discussions with other
    providers to ensure that they meet their obligations of
    providing priority to Amtrak. And if it was an easy issue, it
    would have been solved a long time ago, I think.
        Senator Klobuchar. Yes. Some workforce issues, is an issue
    for every transportation industry that comes before this
    committee and we are very focused on trying to get more people
    into these careers, so very good. All right.
        Well, thank you. I have an apartment here that I hear the
    Amtrak trains when they come in and it is very, very fun
    honestly. That is why I picked it. And just keep up the good
    work and let's keep expanding, especially in the middle of the
    country. I just think there are so many opportunities that are
    untapped. So, thank you.
        The Chair. Thank you, Senator Klobuchar. Senator Blackburn,
    thank you so much.

                  STATEMENT OF HON. MARSHA BLACKBURN,
                      U.S. SENATOR FROM TENNESSEE

        Senator Blackburn. Thank you, Madam Chair. And to each of
    you, thank you for being here. And Senator Klobuchar is
    importantly concerned about rail access in the middle of the
    country.
        I want to talk about that potential passenger rail from
    Atlanta, Chattanooga, Nashville, Memphis. And I would like to
    hear a verbal response from each of you that, if confirmed, you
    would continue to work on a self-sustaining and efficient
    railway for passengers in these communities? Start at one end
    of the dais and work down.
        Ms. Clegg. Chair Cantwell, Senator Blackburn, yes, I will.
        Senator Blackburn. Thank you.
        Mr. Batory. Yes, Senator Blackburn.
        Mr. Lathem. Yes.
        Mr. Capozzi. Ditto. Thank you.
        Senator Blackburn. Thank you. I appreciate that. Mr.
    Capozzi, I know that Senator Welch asked you about our Baby
    Changing on Board Act.
        And knowing that you have worked with Americans with
    disabilities, I would like to know that you are going to
    support this legislation because some of these train routes
    take a while.
        Like Memphis to New Orleans, can take over nine hours, and
    of course babies have to be changed regularly. So is this the
    type of legislation that you are willing to support?
        Mr. Capozzi. Thank you for the question, Senator Blackburn.
    Yes, as I said earlier, I understand the--certainly the need
    for accessible baby changing tables. As the father of triplets,
    our kids are now much older, but I still remember those days
    fondly.
        The point that I made to Senator Welch was just that it is
    important to ensure that accessibility isn't compromised
    because space is at a premium in the accessible bathrooms. So I
    think technical assistance will be critical to ensure that they
    are installed properly.
        Senator Blackburn. Thank you. Mr. Lathem, I want to come to
    you. I know that Senator Schmidt asked you about your trips to
    Venezuela in 2009, 2011. Have you made any additional trips
    into Venezuela?
        Mr. Lathem. No.
        Senator Blackburn. No. OK. And I note that you have been
    quoted in articles as calling Chavez a nice guy and very
    benevolent, and you said or indicated you did not remember
    making those statements. Do you have any clarification on that?
        Mr. Lathem. No.
        Senator Blackburn. You don't. OK. We will get you those
    statements so that you can provide in writing an appropriate
    response.
        Mr. Lathem. Thank you, Senator.
        Senator Blackburn. Mr. Chavez arrested dissidents and said
    that he was a self-avowed enemy of the United States. Are you
    aware of that and do you agree with his statement?
        Mr. Lathem. No.
        Senator Blackburn. You do not, OK. Mr. Chavez nationalized
    and effectively decimated the entire transportation system in
    Venezuela. So do you share Mr. Chavez's views toward
    transportation that government bureaucrat should exert more
    control over the industry?
        Mr. Lathem. No.
        Senator Blackburn. OK. Let me ask you about your previous
    involvement with the Delaware River and Bay Authority, which
    was rife with corruption and scandal during your service.
        After the agency spent more than $1 million on trips and
    entertainment over a three-year period, the Board adopted
    policies to bring some fiscal responsibility to the
    organization. You reportedly claimed and complained about the
    charges, and you were upset that you would, and I am going to
    quote you, that you would ``have to fly coach oversees.''
        At Amtrak, as budgetary losses piled up in 2022, executives
    earned over $2 million in bonuses. And Senator Fischer brought
    this up with you all. And I would like to know, Mr. Lathem,
    given your past comments on using taxpayer funds to have a life
    of luxury, how can we trust you to bring fiscal responsibility
    and transparency to Amtrak?
        Mr. Lathem. I have never taken any trips with the DRBA, and
    I have never justified what happened while I was on the Board,
    when I began. As a matter of fact, the reason the Governor
    appointed me to the Board was to correct some of those
    violations that were going on. And we were able to do that. We
    changed policy. We put in----
        Senator Blackburn. So why did you complain about the
    changes?
        Mr. Lathem. I don't remember complaining about the changes.
    As a matter of fact, I was part of help making the changes.
        Senator Blackburn. We will submit that reporting to you so
    you can respond in writing.
        Mr. Lathem. OK. Thank you very much.
        Senator Blackburn. I would like to have some clarity on
    that. We are very concerned about the losses at Amtrak, so we
    will do that. Let me ask you this, do you have experience in
    the rail industry, in your background?
        Mr. Lathem. In the rail industry? No.
        Senator Blackburn. Yes, sir.
        Mr. Lathem. No.
        Senator Blackburn. You have no experience?
        Mr. Lathem. Not in the rail industry, no.
        Senator Blackburn. So you are the only one panel that has
    no rail experience in their background.
        Mr. Lathem. I have transportation experience.
        Senator Blackburn. Any other member of the panel? Is any
    other member lacking rail experience? OK. Thank you. Thank you,
    Madam Chair.
        The Chair. Thank you. Senator Moran, did you have a second
    round that you were interested in? What a diligent, diligent
    member. Diligent member.
        [Laughter.]
        The Chair. Well, I would like to ask another round quickly.
    And if there is anybody else, members who are thinking about
    attending, now would be a great time to do so. Otherwise, we
    will wrap this up quickly.
        But one of the things I wanted to do, Ms. Clegg, obviously
    we are excited about a Western member that could understand
    some of the dynamics. Obviously, I already asked about working
    with the communities and the states in a more robust and
    transparent way, particularly on the on-time service.
        But you mentioned in your Statement about Boise and about
    some of the added capacity that we could see in the Pacific
    Northwest. What do you think those best options are?
        Ms. Clegg. Senator Cantwell, could you repeat the last part
    of that?
        The Chair. What do you think some of the best options are
    for increasing that capacity? When I think about how trains
    split off in Spokane and go down to the Tri-Cities, or how we
    might reestablish Yakima, or maybe even in, you know, the
    Montana Corridor come down through Billings, Boise--I am sorry,
    Billings and--Boiseman all the way to Boise.
        Ms. Clegg. Thank you for clarifying that. I think there are
    a lot of opportunities in the Northwest. Right now, we have
    only the train up the coast, the Cascadia, and then, of course,
    the Empire Builder that goes over the mountains and across the
    North.
        I think there are already tracts travel through Yakima to
    Pendleton. Probably the Columbia River crossing would be the
    challenge with that one. There is already tracks on both sides
    of the Columbia down to Pendleton, and then down through the
    Cascades, into Boise, into Pocatello, Salt Lake, and then
    points East.
        At Pocatello, there is a track that still exists that
    connects to Butte, Montana. Senator Hickenlooper talked about
    the track that exists from Cheyenne to Billings. Ultimately, we
    can have quite a connected system in the Northwest.
        I think it will require that the state-supported routes
    really become more supported by those Western states that the
    corridor identification program used to identify which of those
    corridors will be most likely to succeed and how we can help
    them succeed.
        But really look forward to a robust, connected system in a
    place where we desperately need it.
        The Chair. Thank you. Thank you for that. Mr. Batory, I
    wanted to return a follow up to Senator Markey's question about
    your time at FRA in the Trump Administration, on the FRA's
    issues on safety. During the time you were working in the rail
    industry, would you have ever had a two mile long train
    operating across the country with only one crew member?
        Mr. Batory. Senator, not knowing the specifics, it is
    doubtful that I would, OK. There is no such word as can't, but
    as far as generically saying, would I run a train across the
    country two miles long, one crew member? Probably not, because
    there is high proportions of the rail network that are
    complicated.
        There is topography. There are demand issues. So there are
    a lot of variables that come into play. And that is why I have
    always said, let the people closest to the work decide what
    needs to be done.
        The Chair. And what about LNG? Because I think under your
    leadership at the FRA, you worked in coordination with the
    Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Administration to allow the
    transport of liquefied natural gas by rail across the country.
    And obviously, it is much more dangerous. Do you still believe
    that LNG should be permitted to ship on a two mile long train?
        Mr. Batory. Regardless of the length of the trains, the
    vessel itself, the vessel, the tank, OK, resided within the
    pipeline agency, OK. The only thing we looked at was the
    vehicle that carries the vessel.
        And we had no difficulty with the vehicle, the flat car,
    that carries the vessel on top. So I can't answer your question
    in so far as the details associated with the vessel.
        The Chair. Even though NTSB had safety concerns?
        Mr. Batory. I would respect those concerns. They need to be
    investigated and answered accordingly in a non-biased----
        The Chair. So you will commit to taking a look at those,
    the NTSB recommendations?
        Mr. Batory. If you would----
        The Chair. As an Amtrak Board member, you will look at
    those recommendations?
        Mr. Batory. If it would percolate, OK, to the Amtrak Board,
    OK, and if I was confirmed, I would certainly--take a renewed
    interest in it.
        The Chair. I think--OK, this is a really important
    question, so I want you to think about this for a minute. One
    of the things that I think our committee as a group has worked
    very hard on is to make sure that the FRA listens to the NTSB.
        The major legislation that Senator Wicker and I worked on
    established early reporting what the NTSB would do on an annual
    basis. What are the safety trends? Why, because we didn't think
    the FRA was paying enough attention to them.
        So we certainly want the NTSB to be paid attention to. And
    so, I am just asking your commitment to take their
    recommendations seriously?
        Mr. Batory. I have always taken NTSB recommendations
    seriously and will continue to.
        The Chair. OK.
        Mr. Batory. Regardless of the subject matter.
        The Chair. OK. Let's see here. Who--I wanted to ask a
    little bit more about the efficiency of the service. As we
    continue to look at the challenges as we were just discussing,
    Ms. Clegg, and may be anybody really, the rest of the nominees,
    this establishing of service and efficiencies.
        And from the West, you get a different mode, obviously,
    because you are empowering communities. You know, I would say,
    you know, access to some of our national parks being one of the
    key components of that. Being in Glacier and seeing everybody
    get off the train. I mean, that is why they are there, to go
    see that park.
        And they were so benefited that they got to ride on Amtrak
    to get there. How are you all thinking about these expansion
    services or even the I-10 corridor, which is another example in
    another part of the country. How are you guys looking at the
    economics of these decisions on expansion of service?
        Ms. Clegg. Senator Cantwell, I will take the first shot at
    that. I think if you followed the FRA long distance study, you
    know--you probably do know this, that one of the criteria that
    they looked at was national parks. Another was educational
    institutions. Another was disadvantaged communities along the
    route.
        I think there were 15 or 20 different criteria. I think if
    we look at that study and look at what they learned about some
    of those routes, we can use that to ensure that the routes that
    we build are the correct ones and that we do it well.
        In terms of trying to figure out how to provide the best
    service, I would say that the places that do have local
    commissions and local groups already are the ones that are
    working hard to provide that better service because of that
    local expertise on the ground.
        And I would hope that Amtrak could not just work with those
    groups but help spur the formation of some of those groups,
    because I think it will help Amtrak service in the long run if
    we can.
        The Chair. OK. Any comments by other witnesses about how to
    expand this service and look at the economics of the issues?
        Mr. Batory. Senator, I just think that--within Amtrak,
    there is a host of subject matter experts associated with
    scheduling of trains, trains that are operating today, as well
    as trains that should operate tomorrow.
        And we should endorse and foster that type of work. And by
    doing that, we will continue to build upon the national network
    that we know of today. And the national network that we know of
    today is not necessarily the perfect or the exact network that
    we need for the future, but it is an evolution, and the Board
    needs to support the Amtrak management team to develop and
    continue to maintain that development of a national network
    that patronizes the people of this country.
        The Chair. I was asking a little bit more, as Ms. Clegg
    mentioned, on those criteria that are included in the list as
    opposed to just the operations--you know, people looking at the
    operation time. I think what is--the Northeast Corridor is
    unique, but so is the West, and I would say so is the South.
        And there are big regional priorities within those areas.
    And so, I was really looking to see the nominees' thoughts
    about how important expansion of Amtrak is. To me, I think it
    is an important tool.
        Some of those criteria are there and in place, and part of
    it is figuring out what else we need to do to make sure that we
    communicate about the viability of these services to an entire
    region. And I am not sure that we have the full scope of that.
    Again, because I think if we did, we might have the I-10
    corridor development already there.
        Mr. Lathem. Senator, I would like to see more expansion
    into rural areas. Being a small state, we still have a problem
    with transportation in rural areas. And I think there are a lot
    more states like us that can use more rail services in those
    rural areas.
        Mr. Batory. That--Senator, the expansion of rail breeds
    economic development in the communities that rail serves. And
    that is why I think it is so important to continually look at
    that network and say, what can we do? Because it is not just
    about making money or how much money we lose on a train.
        It is what it does to the communities it serves and the
    people that will live in those communities. And I share the
    same feeling about rural America.
        The Chair. Thank you. Mr. Capozzi, before I turn to my
    colleague. OK, Senator Lujan. Thank you for joining us.

                   STATEMENT OF HON. BEN RAY LUJAN,
                      U.S. SENATOR FROM NEW MEXICO

        Senator Lujan. Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you so much
    for holding this hearing and thank you to each of you for being
    here as well.
        Every time Amtrak nominees have come before this committee,
    I have pushed for robust funding and support for Amtrak to
    improve rail network for long distance runs. I continue to hear
    horror stories about delays and challenges, especially from
    constituents in New Mexico.
        You know, there has been folks that have been trying to cut
    the run there and give us buses instead of trying to fight to
    keep that thing going and extrapolate that across rural
    America. I appreciate the responses I have already been
    hearing.
        The Southwest Chief has the second lowest on-time
    performance rate of all the long distance routes, getting
    customers on their destination on time only 34 percent of the
    time during this last year. I would like to commend President
    Biden for nominating several Amtrak Board members from the
    Western United States in line with the requirements passed in
    the bipartisan infrastructure law for geographical diversity on
    the Board.
        Now, it is vital that there are members of the Board who
    understand the unique challenges of the West and will stand up
    for our long distance routes and the passengers they serve. Mr.
    Batory, I appreciate you being here as well, being from Santa
    Fe.
        Now, I would like to pose the same question to all of you.
    As a member of the Amtrak Board, yes or no, are you committed
    to advocating for increased funding for the long distance
    network, in particular to address outdated equipment and
    maintenance issues?
        Mr. Lathem. Yes.
        Senator Lujan. Mr. Capozzi.
        Mr. Capozzi. Yes, Senator.
        Senator Lujan. Mr. Batory.
        Mr. Batory. Yes, Senator.
        Senator Lujan. Ms. Clegg.
        Ms. Clegg. Yes, Senator.
        Senator Lujan. Thank you very--or Ms. Clegg. Thank you. I
    will follow up in writing about that as well. Now, I want to
    follow up more specifically on my efforts to preserve the
    Southwest Chief's service to New Mexico.
        I very much appreciate the work of Senator Moran. It was
    years ago as a member of the House when I was invited into a
    room with several Senators, with Senator Moran leading that
    effort, to visit with the CEO from Amtrak when they were trying
    to give us buses and trying to cut those trains to get
    commitments there.
        So, Mr. Batory, you served as Administrator of the Federal
    Railroad Administration during the previous Administration.
    While FRA and Amtrak are separate, they do work closely,
    especially when it comes to grantmaking and budgetary
    decisions.
        Can you briefly explain your involvement in the repeated
    attempts to move the Southwest Chief route to bus service
    during your time as FRA Administrator?
        Mr. Batory. Senator Moran, I am proud to share with you
    that there was a gulf between myself and President Anderson in
    regards to the Southwest Chief. I took a personal interest. At
    first we were using the absence of positive train control is
    the reason. Then we were talking about the physical plant
    condition.
        I reached out to Burlington Northern Santa Fe. I high
    railed the railroad from Lamie, New Mexico, going to Trinidad,
    and realized that the physical plant was adequate for the class
    of track in which it was maintained for and that there was a
    lot of subterfuge, if you will, on trying to degrade the
    Southwest Chief. I am pleased to share with you it never
    happened.
        Senator Lujan. I very much appreciate that and was hoping
    to hear that as clear as you shared it today so that it was
    part of the record.
        Now, Mr. Batory, I am going to read a quote from the
    President, the previous President, President Trump's Fiscal
    Year 2018 budget request, ``Amtrak's long distance trains do
    not serve a vital transportation purpose and are a vestige of
    when train service was the only viable transcontinental
    transportation option.'' Do you agree with that assessment?
        Mr. Batory. I don't recall that statement, but I don't
    agree with it.
        Senator Lujan. That answers my question. Mr. Batory, do you
    agree that Congress should stop funding Amtrak's long distance
    routes?
        Mr. Batory. No, it should not.
        Senator Lujan. If confirmed, do you commit to preserving
    and expanding rather than reducing service on the Southwest
    Chief line?
        Mr. Batory. I would certainly be open to listening to the
    facts that support that expansion.
        Senator Lujan. I appreciate that very much. Madam Chair, I
    want to thank you for this important hearing and especially
    allowing me to ask questions around the Southwest Chief, which
    is vital to New Mexico.
        Since I have 30 seconds, Mr. Batory, being from Santa Fe, I
    hope that we look to expand opportunities, that we take a
    chance to learn more, as we heard from Mr. Lathem, into more
    rural areas. There is not a way for us to get from Santa Fe
    down to Las Cruces into the border and into Santa Teresa, which
    is expanding.
        It is incredible to see what is happening there and gets us
    closer to El Paso. So I hope to have further conversations with
    all of you down the road as we look at some of those
    opportunities down the road. So, thank you very much. Thank
    you, Madam Chair.
        The Chair. Thank you, Senator Lujan. Thank you for that
    advocacy. Before we close the hearing, I have one more question
    for the nominees. If confirmed, will you pledge to work
    collaboratively with this committee, provide thorough and
    timely responses to your requests for information as we put
    together and address important policy issues, and appear before
    the Committee when requested?
        Mr. Lathem. Yes.
        Mr. Capozzi. Yes, Madam Chair.
        Mr. Batory. Yes.
        Ms. Clegg. I look forward to it. Yes.
        The Chair. Great. Well, thank you for your willingness and
    commitment to serve. That ends our hearing.
        You will have until the close of business Monday, September
    16 to submit--Senators will, to submit questions for the
    record, and witnesses will have until the close of business
    Monday, September 23 to respond to those questions. Again,
    thank you all for being here. This concludes our hearing.
        [Whereupon, at 11:49 a.m., the hearing was adjourned.]

                                A P P E N D I X

      Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Tammy Duckworth to
                                 David Capozzi
    Accessibility Improvements
        While Amtrak continues to make progress in increasing accessibility
    and improving the travel experience for people with disabilities, there
    remains much work to be done. According to a recent report by the
    National Disability Rights Network, a nonprofit membership organization
    for the Federally mandated Protection and Advocacy (P&A) Systems and
    the Client Assistance Programs (CAP) for individuals with disabilities,
    people with disabilities continue to encounter inaccessible trains,
    kiosks, bathrooms and stations. They also continue to deal with
    unnecessary embarrassment, discomfort and disrespectful treatment. That
    is why I have been pleased to see some progress with the design of the
    Amtrak Airo. It is also why Senator Capito and I recently introduced
    the bipartisan, bicameral S. 4107, Think Differently Transportation
    Act, which passed the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation
    Committee unanimously. Our bill would bring Amtrak stations up to
    standards enshrined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by
    requiring the rail agency to submit annual reports to Congress on the
    status of its compliance with accessibility standards set by the ADA at
    the 385 stations for which Amtrak is responsible.

        Question 1. Please explain how you would ensure Amtrak builds--in a
    timely and efficient manner--on the progress it has made to continue to
    incorporate inclusive and universal design principles throughout
    Amtrak's work, including on stations, rail cars and staff training?
        Answer. I'll bring my many years of experience to the Amtrak
    Board--both in Federal government service and with nonprofit
    organizations--in addressing rail and other public transportation
    accessibility issues. As I said in my confirmation hearing, if
    confirmed, my focus will be providing leadership and attention in
    fulfilling Amtrak's ADA obligations and in meeting the DOJ settlement
    agreement terms. I will hold Amtrak accountable to its commitments. I
    will also work closely with Amtrak's Vice President of Accessibility,
    Stations & Facilities and its ADA Executive Oversight Committee to
    ensure that progress continues to be made in advancing accessibility to
    stations, rail cars, and staff training.
    Long Distance Rail
        Amtrak is a national network that plays a vital role in the
    transportation of customers to all corners of the U.S. Long-distance
    Amtrak routes connect large cities to small rural towns and vice versa.
    Chicago plays an outsized role in that network--50 percent of all of
    Amtrak's long-distance customers ride trains that either begin or end
    at Chicago Union Station.

        Question 1. If confirmed, would you continue to support Amtrak
    long-distance routes?
        Answer. I value all of the train services Amtrak offers--long-
    distance, state-supported, and Northeast Corridor services. I am
    committed to long-distance train service.
    Chicago Hub Improvement Program (CHIP)
        Amtrak's Chicago Hub Improvement Program (CHIP) would help
    alleviate rail congestion in Chicago. This congestion slows down
    intercity passenger rail across the Midwest and across the country. The
    CHIP program would be particularly helpful for Michigan, Indiana,
    Missouri, Minnesota and Wisconsin, as well as Illinois.

        Question 1. If confirmed, will you commit to visiting Chicago Union
    Station to see this project?
        Answer. If confirmed, I look forward to visiting Chicago Union
    Station to see this project.

        Question 2. If confirmed, will you agree to maintain the
    commitments Amtrak has made to the Midwest region on improving
    intercity passenger rail through Chicago??
        Answer. If confirmed, I would agree to maintain the commitments
    Amtrak has made to the Midwest region on improving intercity passenger
    rail through Chicago.
                                     ______

      Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Raphael Warnock to
                                 David Capozzi
    Amtrak Safety and On-Time Performance
        I am concerned by reports of delays and stoppages on Amtrak routes,
    especially as an impediment to expansion of passenger rail service
    beyond the Northeast Corridor. According to the Department of Justice,
    in 2023, only 24 percent of southbound passenger trains on the Crescent
    route arrived at their destination on time.\1\ In July 2024, the
    Department of Justice filed a civil complaint alleging that Norfolk
    Southern (NS), which controls 1,140 miles of rail line on the
    Crescent's 1,377 mile route and handles dispatching for all trains
    along that segment, delays passengers trains in violation of Federal
    law.\2\ One example in the complaint notes an August 2022 Crescent
    train was delayed for 55 minutes when it was forced to follow a NS
    train from Bremen, Georgia, to Birmingham, Alabama, because there were
    no sidings along the route long enough to accommodate the freight
    train.\3\ In addition, this July, an Amtrak Crescent train struck a
    passenger vehicle in Lula, Georgia, injuring three passengers.\4\
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
        \1\ Justice Department Files Complaint Against Norfolk Southern to
    Stop Amtrak Passenger Train Delays, Department of Justice (Jul. 30,
    2024), https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-files-
    complaint-against-norfolk-southern-stop-amtrak-passenger-train.
        \2\ Id.
        \3\ Complaint  35(a), United States of America v. Norfolk Southern
    Corporation and Norfolk Southern Railway Company, No. 24-cv-02226
    (D.D.C. Jul. 30, 2024), https://www.justice.gov/opa/media/1362071/
    dl?inline (``On August 22, 2022, Crescent 19 was delayed for 55 minutes
    when it was forced to follow Norfolk Southern train 29S-22 for 115
    miles from Bremen, Georgia, to Birmingham, Alabama, because there were
    no sidings along the route long enough to accommodate Norfolk Southern
    train 29S-22'').
        \4\ Pickup truck hit by train in Lula, all three occupants injured,
    access WDUN (Jul. 30, 2024), https://accesswdun.com/article/2024/7/
    1255087/travel-issues-in-banks-county-following-train-collision-with-
    pickup-truck.

        Question 1. If confirmed as a member of the Amtrak Board of
    Directors, how will you promote a stronger partnership and improve
    communication with freight rail carriers to improve safety and on-time
    performance on the National Network?
        Answer. It's my understanding that Amtrak faces the largest number
    of delays due to freight train interference. Statute requires freight
    trains as the host railroad to much of Amtrak National Network service,
    to give Amtrak trains preference in dispatching over freight trains. In
    practice, this is rarely enforced. Real enforcement is necessary for
    Amtrak trains to run on time. We need to be driven by Amtrak's mission
    which is to provide efficient and effective intercity passenger rail
    mobility consisting of high-quality service that is trip-time
    competitive with other intercity travel options. I will work with my
    fellow Board members to ensure that we do our part in helping Amtrak to
    meet its federally required on-time performance standards, that at
    least 80 percent of a train's customers must arrive on time for any two
    consecutive calendar quarters. One way to improve communication with
    freight rail carriers is by meeting with them more often and
    publicizing the results of those meetings in a transparent way. Open
    communication is critical to improving relationships.
    Amtrak Expansion in the Southeast
        The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which I was proud to support,
    includes nearly $13 billion for Amtrak grants for activities associated
    with the National Network and over $1.3 billion in funding for the
    Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to carry out railroad safety
    activities. On December 8, 2023, FRA announced selections through the
    Corridor Identification and Development Program to create a pipeline of
    intercity passenger rail projects ready for implementation and future
    investment.\5\ These selections include three grants, totaling $1.5
    million, to explore new passenger rail routes across Georgia and into
    neighboring states.\6\ The Fiscal Year 2025 Transportation, Housing and
    Urban Development government funding bill also includes $10 million for
    Amtrak to build a new intercity passenger rail hub station in
    Atlanta.\7\ This support is a good starting point, but there is clearly
    more work to be done to expand rail access in Georgia and the greater
    southeast.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
        \5\ President Biden Announces $8.2 Billion in New Grants for High-
    Speed Rail and Pipeline of Projects Nationwide, Federal Railroad
    Administration (Dec. 8, 2023), https://railroads.dot.gov/about-fra/
    communications/newsroom/press-releases/president-biden-announces-82-
    billion-new-grants.
        \6\ FY22 Corridor Identification and Development Program
    Selections, Federal Railroad Administration (Dec. 8, 2023), https://
    railroads.dot.gov/sites/fra.dot.gov/files/2023-12/FY22%20CID
    %20Project%20Summaries-Map-r1.pdf.
        \7\ Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related
    Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025, S. 4796, 118th Cong. (2024).

        Question 1. In general, does the presence of passenger rail service
    increase commercial, business, and tourism opportunities?
        Answer. I believe that investment in passenger rail service
    promotes greater mobility and economic development, generates new jobs,
    encourages energy efficiency, and enhances our standard of living. A
    strong passenger rail program--adding train manufacturing,
    construction, operation, and maintenance--will provide good-paying jobs
    that can't be exported. Investing in passenger rail service also
    fosters real estate development around stations. This promotes many
    non-rail jobs, walkable communities, and energy-efficient lifestyles.

        Question 2. Will you commit to comprehensively analyzing the
    feasibility and economic potential of these routes?
        Answer. If confirmed, I will commit to comprehensively analyzing
    the feasibility and economic potential of these routes.

        Question 3. How do centralized, modern rail hub stations, like the
    new proposed Atlanta rail hub station, support passenger rail ridership
    and improve the ridership experience?
        Answer. Centralized, modern rail hub stations support passenger
    rail ridership and improve the passenger experience by playing a
    critical role in reshaping our cities in a sustainable manner by
    facilitating interconnectivity and by serving as a catalyst for urban
    redevelopment activities around new stations by increasing mobility and
    accessibility for all without increasing traffic.

        Question 4. Will you commit to exploring all opportunities to
    improve the Atlanta and Savannah Amtrak stations to prepare them for
    passenger rail expansion?
        Answer. If confirmed, I will commit to exploring all opportunities
    to improve the Atlanta and Savannah Amtrak stations to prepare them for
    passenger rail expansion.
                                     ______

    Response to Written Question Submitted by Hon. Shelley Moore Capito to
                                 David Capozzi
        Question 1. Senator Duckworth and I have a bill--the Think
    Differently Transportation Act which would mandate that Amtrak has to
    submit annual reports about accessibility compliance in stations that
    are not yet ADA compliant. I was proud to see the Charleston station
    become fully accessible last fall, but we still have 4 stations working
    towards being fully accessible in my state. Can you tell us about some
    of the compliance challenges for rural stations that are not yet
    accessible? Can you explain why our bill to require Amtrak to report on
    station compliance would be helpful?
        Answer. Rural stations that are not yet accessible face many of the
    same compliance challenges as stations in more developed areas of the
    country. However, they often face other accessibility complications
    such as having inadequate public right-of-way infrastructure such as
    incomplete sidewalks, no curb ramps, or a lack of complying curb ramps.
    Rural stations often must address accessibility issues complicated by
    ADA historic preservation provisions. A building that is listed in or
    eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, or
    designated as historic under an appropriate State or local law, may
    have to address exceptions for alterations to accessible routes,
    entrances, or toilet facilities when a State Historic Preservation
    Officer or Advisory Council on Historic Preservation determines that
    compliance with the ADA requirements would threaten or destroy the
    historic significance of the building. Rural stations where Amtrak has
    no ADA responsibilities often face additional challenges such as
    limited financial resources.
        The Think Differently Transportation Act would require Amtrak to
    report to Congress information on its compliance with the ADA with
    respect to stations annually while the settlement agreement with the
    Department of Justice is in effect and every 5 years when the
    settlement is no longer in effect. Although the DOJ settlement
    agreement already requires ADA Progress Reports on a bi-annual basis
    and to make those reports available to the public, your bill will
    provide much needed transparency in Amtrak's progress in meeting its
    ADA obligations and will memorialize the reporting requirements of the
    DOJ settlement agreement.
                                     ______

      Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Tammy Duckworth to
                                 Samuel Lathem
    Long Distance Rail
        Amtrak is a national network that plays a vital role in the
    transportation of customers to all corners of the U.S. Long-distance
    Amtrak routes connect large cities to small rural towns and vice versa.
    Chicago plays an outsized role in that network--50 percent of all of
    Amtrak's long-distance customers ride trains that either begin or end
    at Chicago Union Station.

        Question 1. If confirmed, would you continue to support Amtrak
    long-distance routes?
        Answer. As an Amtrak Board member, if confirmed, I would work to
    encourage expansion of long-distance routes.
    Chicago Hub Improvement Program (CHIP)
        Amtrak's Chicago Hub Improvement Program (CHIP) would help
    alleviate rail congestion in Chicago. This congestion slows down
    intercity passenger rail across the Midwest and across the country. The
    CHIP program would be particularly helpful for Michigan, Indiana,
    Missouri, Minnesota and Wisconsin, as well as Illinois.

        Question 1. If confirmed, will you commit to visiting Chicago Union
    Station to see this project?
        Answer. Yes.

        Question 2. If confirmed, will you agree to maintain the
    commitments Amtrak has made to the Midwest region on improving
    intercity passenger rail through Chicago??
        Answer. Yes.
                                     ______

      Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Raphael Warnock to
                                 Samuel Lathem
    Amtrak Safety and On-Time Performance
        I am concerned by reports of delays and stoppages on Amtrak routes,
    especially as an impediment to expansion of passenger rail service
    beyond the Northeast Corridor. According to the Department of Justice,
    in 2023, only 24 percent of southbound passenger trains on the Crescent
    route arrived at their destination on time.\1\ In July 2024, the
    Department of Justice filed a civil complaint alleging that Norfolk
    Southern (NS), which controls 1,140 miles of rail line on the
    Crescent's 1,377 mile route and handles dispatching for all trains
    along that segment, delays passengers trains in violation of Federal
    law.\2\ One example in the complaint notes an August 2022 Crescent
    train was delayed for 55 minutes when it was forced to follow a NS
    train from Bremen, Georgia, to Birmingham, Alabama, because there were
    no sidings along the route long enough to accommodate the freight
    train.\3\ In addition, this July, an Amtrak Crescent train struck a
    passenger vehicle in Lula, Georgia, injuring three passengers.\4\
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
        \1\ Justice Department Files Complaint Against Norfolk Southern to
    Stop Amtrak Passenger Train Delays, Department of Justice (Jul. 30,
    2024), https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-files-
    complaint-against-norfolk-southern-stop-amtrak-passenger-train.
        \2\ Id.
        \3\ Complaint  35(a), United States of America v. Norfolk Southern
    Corporation and Norfolk Southern Railway Company, No. 24-cv-02226
    (D.D.C. Jul. 30, 2024), https://www.justice.gov/opa/media/1362071/
    dl?inline (``On August 22, 2022, Crescent 19 was delayed for 55 minutes
    when it was forced to follow Norfolk Southern train 29S-22 for 115
    miles from Bremen, Georgia, to Birmingham, Alabama, because there were
    no sidings along the route long enough to accommodate Norfolk Southern
    train 29S-22'').
        \4\ Pickup truck hit by train in Lula, all three occupants injured,
    access WDUN (Jul. 30, 2024), https://accesswdun.com/article/2024/7/
    1255087/travel-issues-in-banks-county-following-train-collision-with-
    pickup-truck.

        Question 1. If confirmed as a member of the Amtrak Board of
    Directors, how will you promote a stronger partnership and improve
    communication with freight rail carriers to improve safety and on-time
    performance on the National Network?
        Answer. It is an issue I will look at very closely. However, I need
    more data in order to give an informed answer.
    Amtrak Expansion in the Southeast
        The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which I was proud to support,
    includes nearly $13 billion for Amtrak grants for activities associated
    with the National Network and over $1.3 billion in funding for the
    Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to carry out railroad safety
    activities. On December 8, 2023, FRA announced selections through the
    Corridor Identification and Development Program to create a pipeline of
    intercity passenger rail projects ready for implementation and future
    investment.\5\ These selections include three grants, totaling $1.5
    million, to explore new passenger rail routes across Georgia and into
    neighboring states.\6\ The Fiscal Year 2025 Transportation, Housing and
    Urban Development government funding bill also includes $10 million for
    Amtrak to build a new intercity passenger rail hub station in
    Atlanta.\7\ This support is a good starting point, but there is clearly
    more work to be done to expand rail access in Georgia and the greater
    southeast.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
        \5\ President Biden Announces $8.2 Billion in New Grants for High-
    Speed Rail and Pipeline of Projects Nationwide, Federal Railroad
    Administration (Dec. 8, 2023), https://railroads.dot.gov/about-fra/
    communications/newsroom/press-releases/president-biden-announces-82-
    billion-new-grants.
        \6\ FY22 Corridor Identification and Development Program
    Selections, Federal Railroad Administration (Dec. 8, 2023), https://
    railroads.dot.gov/sites/fra.dot.gov/files/2023-12/FY22%20CID
    %20Project%20Summaries-Map-r1.pdf.
        \7\ Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related
    Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025, S. 4796, 118th Cong. (2024).

        Question 1. In general, does the presence of passenger rail service
    increase commercial, business, and tourism opportunities?
        Answer. Yes.

        Question 2. Will you commit to comprehensively analyzing the
    feasibility and economic potential of these routes?
        Answer. Yes.

        Question 3. How do centralized, modern rail hub stations, like the
    new proposed Atlanta rail hub station, support passenger rail ridership
    and improve the ridership experience?
        Answer. The country needs more rail hubs to support more
    opportunities for intercity passenger rail.

        Question 4. Will you commit to exploring all opportunities to
    improve the Atlanta and Savannah Amtrak stations to prepare them for
    passenger rail expansion?
        Answer. Yes.
                                     ______

          Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Ted Cruz to
                                 Samuel Lathem
    Questionnaire Inaccuracies
        You completed and sent the Committee a questionnaire each time you
    were nominated for this position, in 2022, 2023, and 2024. At the end
    of each questionnaire, you signed an affidavit, attesting that ``the
    information provided therein [was], to the best of [your] knowledge,
    current, accurate, and complete.'' Every time, however, you did not
    disclose a significant amount of responsive information, including
    public statements, published pieces, and campaign contributions.

        Question 1. In response to question 17 on the 2022, 2023, and 2024
    questionnaires, which asked you to ``list each book, article, column,
    letter to the editor, Internet blog posting, or other publication you
    have authored,'' you responded ``none.''

        a. Did you write a piece in The News Journal in 2011 called ``Labor
    Gave Us a Middle Class; Corporations are Taking it Away''?
        Answer. Yes. Upon receiving your questions, I reviewed this piece
    and see that I did author this piece in 2011.

        b. Did you co-author a piece in the Dover Post in 2013 with then
    AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka called ``On Labor Day, Too Many
    Workers Labor in the Shadows''?
        Answer. Yes. Upon receiving your questions, I reviewed this piece
    and see that I did co-author this piece in 2013.

        c. Did you co-author a piece in 2006 in The News Journal called
    ``Delaware Must Reform Workers' Comp Now''?
        Answer. Yes. Upon receiving your questions, I reviewed this piece
    and see that I did co-author this piece in 2006.

        d. Are there any other books, articles, columns, Internet blog
    postings, or other publications you have authored that you did not
    disclose to this Committee in your 2022, 2023, and 2024 questionnaires?
        Answer. Not that I recall.

        Question 2. Please explain how you verified your answers to
    question 1.
        Answer. I answered to the best of my ability and how I remembered
    it.

        Question 3. In response to question 19 on the 2023 and 2024
    questionnaires, which asked you to ``list all public statements you
    have made during the past ten years,'' you responded ``none.''

        a. Did you make the statement attributed to you in the 2015 article
    in The News Journal article titled, ``Data Center Supporters Call for
    Investigation''?
        Answer. Yes. Upon receiving your questions, I reviewed the article
    and see the statement attributed to me. I did not recall making this
    statement.

        b. Did you make the statements attributed to you in the 2014
    article in The News Journal article titled, ``Flower to Endorse on
    Thursday''?
        Answer. Yes. Upon receiving your questions, I reviewed the article
    and see the statement attributed to me. I did not recall making this
    statement.

        c. Have you made any other public statements during the past ten
    years?
        Answer. Not that I am aware.

        Question 4. Please explain how you verified your answers to
    question 3.
        Answer. I answered to the best of my ability and how I remembered
    it.

        Question 5. In response to question 15 on the 2022, 2023, and 2024
    questionnaires, which asked you to ``[i]itemize all political
    contributions to any individual, campaign organization, political
    party, political action committee, or similar entity of $200 or more
    for the past ten years,'' you responded ``none.''

        a. Did you donate $500 to the election campaign of now Delaware
    Governor John Carney in 2016?
        Answer. Yes.

        b. In the last ten years, did you make any other political
    contributions to any individual, campaign organization, political
    party, political action committee, or similar entity of $200 or more
    that you did not disclose to this Committee in your 2022, 2023, and
    2024 questionnaires?
        Answer. I gave a contribution to Lisa Blunt Rochester. According to
    the FEC website, this contribution was in May 2016 for $300.

        Question 6. Please explain how you verified your answers to
    question 5.
        Answer. I answered to the best of my ability and how I remembered
    it.
    Trips to Venezuela
        During your nomination hearing on September 11, Senator Schmitt
    asked you several questions about your trips to Venezuela in 2009 and
    2011.
        Question 7. You testified to the Committee that ``you never said''
    the Chavez regime was ``benevolent.'' However, you were quoted in a
    2009 article in The News Journal titled ``Del. Labor Leaders Prepare
    Visit to Venezuela,'' as stating: ``They look like they've got a very
    aggressive agenda for us. Based on what they've done in this state,
    they've been very benevolent (emphasis added). I think Richard and his
    wife [referring to Richard and Magda Korn, who helped organize the
    trip] have been a big part of establishing that relationship.'' For
    your reference and the hearing record, I am attaching a copy of that
    article. Would you like to correct the record and acknowledge that you
    did make this statement?
        Answer. In the agreement they had with Joe Kennedy II they were to
    provide oil to people who could not afford it and in that vein, yes,
    they were benevolent.

        Question 8. You testified to the Committee that you went to
    Venezuela in 2011 as a guest of the president of the Building Trades of
    Delaware. However, during your staff interview, you said the Venezuelan
    Consulate invited you on this trip. Moreover, a 2011 article in Burning
    Spear, describing the conference, says the U.S. delegation of African
    Socialist International ``was made up of James Early, the Smithsonian
    Institution's Director of Cultural Heritage Policy of the Center for
    Folklife and Cultural Heritage; Samuel E. Lathem, President of the
    Delaware State AFL-CIO; Ajamu Baraka, Executive Director of the U.S.
    Human Rights Network; Joia Nuri, Chief of Staff for TransAfrica Forum;
    August Nimtz, representative of the U.S. Socialist Workers Party;
    Chokwe Lumumba, New Afrikan People's Organization and Howard University
    students.'' None of those individuals are from the Building Trades of
    Delaware. For your reference and the hearing record, I am attaching a
    copy of that article.

        a. When you said the trip was as a guest of the president of the
    Building Trades of Delaware, were you referring to the 2009 trip?
        Answer. I was referring to both trips, but the president of the
    building trades could not make the second trip.

        b. If yes, was the 2011 trip at the invitation of the Venezuelan
    Consulate? If no, was your statement during your staff interview that
    the Venezuelan Consulate invited you inaccurate?
        Answer. No, the president of the building trades invited me, but he
    could not make it.

        Question 9. You testified to the Committee that the Venezuelan
    government paid for the 2009 trip to Venezuela. During your staff
    interview you said that the Venezuelan government paid for 2011 trip to
    Venezuela as well. Is that accurate?
        Answer. Yes, as far as I know. It was the president of the Delaware
    Building Trades that made the arrangements.
    Relationship with White House
        Question 10. In public reporting, you have been identified as a
    ``longtime Biden family friend.'' In your interview with my staff, you
    acknowledged your longstanding relationship with President Biden. Given
    your close relationship with the President, when did you first begin to
    notice the President's cognitive decline?
        Answer. Since President Biden took office, I have had limited
    interaction with him and have not noticed any changes whatsoever.
                                     ______

    Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Shelley Moore Capito to

                                 Samuel Lathem
        Question 1. We all want to see Amtrak succeed and not just in the
    Northeast Corridor--one of the issues that has been constant across the
    network has been about procuring rolling stock (train cars and
    locomotives). This long and difficult process often means that it can
    take years and years to see new train sets come into service. What
    ideas do you have for improving the procurement process?
        Answer. I agree that it is important that we create an environment
    where new rolling stock is delivered on time, on budget, and in
    compliance with all safety requirements. If confirmed, I commit to
    looking into this issue further and working to ensure this outcome.

        Question 2. Safety is always my top priority on this committee. I
    know that when Mr. Batory was the head of the FRA he helped to
    implement Positive Train Control. What are your thoughts on PTC and
    other safety technologies?
        Answer. Safety is also a number one priority with me.
                                     ______

      Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Tammy Duckworth to
                                 Ronald Batory
    Long Distance Rail
        Amtrak is a national network that plays a vital role in the
    transportation of customers to all corners of the U.S. Long-distance
    Amtrak routes connect large cities to small rural towns and vice versa.
    Chicago plays an outsized role in that network--50 percent of all of
    Amtrak's long-distance customers ride trains that either begin or end
    at Chicago Union Station.

        Question 1. If confirmed, would you continue to support Amtrak
    long-distance routes?
        Answer. Yes.
    Chicago Hub Improvement Program (CHIP)
        Amtrak's Chicago Hub Improvement Program (CHIP) would help
    alleviate rail congestion in Chicago. This congestion slows down
    intercity passenger rail across the Midwest and across the country. The
    CHIP program would be particularly helpful for Michigan, Indiana,
    Missouri, Minnesota and Wisconsin, as well as Illinois.

        Question 1. If confirmed, will you commit to visiting Chicago Union
    Station to see this project?
        Answer. Yes.

        Question 2. If confirmed, will you agree to maintain the
    commitments Amtrak has made to the Midwest region on improving
    intercity passenger rail through Chicago??
        Answer. Yes.
                                     ______

      Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Raphael Warnock to
                                 Ronald Batory
    Amtrak Safety and On-Time Performance
        I am concerned by reports of delays and stoppages on Amtrak routes,
    especially as an impediment to expansion of passenger rail service
    beyond the Northeast Corridor. According to the Department of Justice,
    in 2023, only 24 percent of southbound passenger trains on the Crescent
    route arrived at their destination on time.\1\ In July 2024, the
    Department of Justice filed a civil complaint alleging that Norfolk
    Southern (NS), which controls 1,140 miles of rail line on the
    Crescent's 1,377 mile route and handles dispatching for all trains
    along that segment, delays passengers trains in violation of Federal
    law.\2\ One example in the complaint notes an August 2022 Crescent
    train was delayed for 55 minutes when it was forced to follow a NS
    train from Bremen, Georgia, to Birmingham, Alabama, because there were
    no sidings along the route long enough to accommodate the freight
    train.\3\ In addition, this July, an Amtrak Crescent train struck a
    passenger vehicle in Lula, Georgia, injuring three passengers.\4\
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
        \1\ Justice Department Files Complaint Against Norfolk Southern to
    Stop Amtrak Passenger Train Delays, Department of Justice (Jul. 30,
    2024), https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-files-
    complaint-against-norfolk-southern-stop-amtrak-passenger-train.
        \2\ Id.
        \3\ Complaint  35(a), United States of America v. Norfolk Southern
    Corporation and Norfolk Southern Railway Company, No. 24-cv-02226
    (D.D.C. Jul. 30, 2024), https://www.justice.gov/opa/media/1362071/
    dl?inline (``On August 22, 2022, Crescent 19 was delayed for 55 minutes
    when it was forced to follow Norfolk Southern train 29S-22 for 115
    miles from Bremen, Georgia, to Birmingham, Alabama, because there were
    no sidings along the route long enough to accommodate Norfolk Southern
    train 29S-22'').
        \4\ Pickup truck hit by train in Lula, all three occupants injured,
    access WDUN (Jul. 30, 2024), https://accesswdun.com/article/2024/7/
    1255087/travel-issues-in-banks-county-following-train-collision-with-
    pickup-truck.

        Question 1. If confirmed as a member of the Amtrak Board of
    Directors, how will you promote a stronger partnership and improve
    communication with freight rail carriers to improve safety and on-time
    performance on the National Network?
        Answer. Regarding safety, Amtrak management should develop action
    plans to resolve physical plant and operating practices issues. Host
    railroad management should engage to the extent they have
    responsibility for a given safety concern.
        Regarding on-time performance, I would advocate for Amtrak
    management to reach agreement with host railroads on all train
    schedules, as set forth in the governing FRA regulation covering
    service metrics and standards. If Amtrak and a freight host do not even
    agree about the schedule, it is difficult to improve service. Legal
    action is an option, but it should be a last resort given the time and
    expense involved.
    Amtrak Expansion in the Southeast
        The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which I was proud to support,
    includes nearly $13 billion for Amtrak grants for activities associated
    with the National Network and over $1.3 billion in funding for the
    Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to carry out railroad safety
    activities. On December 8, 2023, FRA announced selections through the
    Corridor Identification and
        Development Program to create a pipeline of intercity passenger
    rail projects ready for implementation and future investment.\5\ These
    selections include three grants, totaling $1.5 million, to explore new
    passenger rail routes across Georgia and into neighboring states.\6\
    The Fiscal Year 2025 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development
    government funding bill also includes $10 million for Amtrak to build a
    new intercity passenger rail hub station in Atlanta.\7\ This support is
    a good starting point, but there is clearly more work to be done to
    expand rail access in Georgia and the greater southeast.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
        \5\ President Biden Announces $8.2 Billion in New Grants for High-
    Speed Rail and Pipeline of Projects Nationwide, Federal Railroad
    Administration (Dec. 8, 2023), https://railroads.dot.gov/about-fra/
    communications/newsroom/press-releases/president-biden-announces-82-
    billion-new-grants.
        \6\ FY22 Corridor Identification and Development Program
    Selections, Federal Railroad Administration (Dec. 8, 2023), https://
    railroads.dot.gov/sites/fra.dot.gov/files/2023-12/FY22%20CID
    %20Project%20Summaries-Map-r1.pdf.
        \7\ Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related
    Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025, S. 4796, 118th Cong. (2024).

        Question 1. In general, does the presence of passenger rail service
    increase commercial, business, and tourism opportunities?
        Answer. Yes.

        Question 2. Will you commit to comprehensively analyzing the
    feasibility and economic potential of these routes?
        Answer. If confirmed, yes.

        Question 3. How do centralized, modern rail hub stations, like the
    new proposed Atlanta rail hub station, support passenger rail ridership
    and improve the ridership experience?
        Answer. A central rail station can host an array of routes and
    frequencies of choice. These potential attributes can attract rail
    ridership to new heights.

        Question 4. Will you commit to exploring all opportunities to
    improve the Atlanta and Savannah Amtrak stations to prepare them for
    passenger rail expansion?
        Answer. If confirmed, yes.
                                     ______

    Response to Written Question Submitted by Hon. Shelley Moore Capito to
                                 Ronald Batory
        Question 1. I'd like to ask you about Amtrak's preference over
    freight railroads since you used to be the head of the Federal Railroad
    Administration. In 2023, the Capitol Limited had an on-time performance
    rating of 70 percent and the Cardinal line had a terrible 58 percent--
    far below the 80 percent goal. What ways could Amtrak better enforce
    their statutory preference over freight rails?
        Answer. Resolve the dispute schedules pending for both trains. That
    is a key step required by the FRA regulation, and Amtrak and host
    railroads have not completed that work. Once agreement on schedules is
    achieved, issues such as physical plant capacity and necessary
    operating changes will become obvious. Mutual agreement on realistic
    improvements is preferable to the cost and expense of legal action.
                                     ______

      Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Tammy Duckworth to
                                  Elaine Clegg
    Long Distance Rail
        Amtrak is a national network that plays a vital role in the
    transportation of customers to all corners of the U.S. Long-distance
    Amtrak routes connect large cities to small rural towns and vice versa.
    Chicago plays an outsized role in that network--50 percent of all of
    Amtrak's long-distance customers ride trains that either begin or end
    at Chicago Union Station.

        Question 1. If confirmed, would you continue to support Amtrak
    long-distance routes?
        Answer. Yes, I will. The long-distance routes are the backbone of
    the Amtrak national network. I have worked for the past three years as
    a member of the Greater Northwest Passenger Rail working group to
    advocate for expanding that network to better serve all Americans.
    There are 15 routes today in the long-distance network and a number of
    integrated state-supported routes. Additionally, the FRA has chosen 69
    corridors for the Corridor Identification Program (CID), many of which
    can augment the Amtrak network with state supported and long-distance
    service, and many of those corridors chosen also connect to the Chicago
    hub.
        The FRA has also completed the outreach for the Long-Distance
    Service study and identified 15 additional preferred long-distance
    routes (one of which is also in the CID program) after receiving over
    47,000 public comments. 99 percent of those comments were supportive of
    additional long-distance passenger rail service in the US. If
    confirmed, I will work as an Amtrak Board member to strengthen existing
    long-distance service, and to implement the FRA network of preferred
    routes; for expansion of passenger rail service to places that do not
    have service today and enhancing service in places already well served
    such as the Chicago region.
    Chicago Hub Improvement Program (CHIP)
        Amtrak's Chicago Hub Improvement Program (CHIP) would help
    alleviate rail congestion in Chicago. This congestion slows down
    intercity passenger rail across the Midwest and across the country. The
    CHIP program would be particularly helpful for Michigan, Indiana,
    Missouri, Minnesota and Wisconsin, as well as Illinois.

        Question 1. If confirmed, will you commit to visiting Chicago Union
    Station to see this project?
        Answer. The Chicago Union Station is one of the iconic stations
    that I have yet to visit and I would be excited to come to Chicago,
    tour the station and experience the train service moving in and out of
    the city to learn more about the CHIP program and how the congestion at
    this important hub would be mitigated.

        Question 2. If confirmed, will you agree to maintain the
    commitments Amtrak has made to the Midwest region on improving
    intercity passenger rail through Chicago??
        Answer. Intercity passenger rail is dependent on long-term stable
    funding, especially for the infrastructure improvements needed to make
    it more efficient and attractive to use. Chicago will always be an
    important hub for both intercity passenger rail and freight. One of the
    issues I commit to working on if confirmed is finding solutions to the
    congestion that is exacerbated by the interactions of passenger and
    freight rail on rail corridors to improve movement for both passenger
    rail and freight. I also am eager to bring my familiarity with
    improving the experience of transit riders to Amtrak as it works to
    improve the experience of passenger rail riders.
                                     ______

      Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Raphael Warnock to
                                  Elaine Clegg
    Amtrak Safety and On-Time Performance
        I am concerned by reports of delays and stoppages on Amtrak routes,
    especially as an impediment to expansion of passenger rail service
    beyond the Northeast Corridor. According to the Department of Justice,
    in 2023, only 24 percent of southbound passenger trains on the Crescent
    route arrived at their destination on time.\1\ In July 2024, the
    Department of Justice filed a civil complaint alleging that Norfolk
    Southern (NS), which controls 1,140 miles of rail line on the
    Crescent's 1,377 mile route and handles dispatching for all trains
    along that segment, delays passengers trains in violation of Federal
    law.\2\ One example in the complaint notes an August 2022 Crescent
    train was delayed for 55 minutes when it was forced to follow a NS
    train from Bremen, Georgia, to Birmingham, Alabama, because there were
    no sidings along the route long enough to accommodate the freight
    train.\3\ In addition, this July, an Amtrak Crescent train struck a
    passenger vehicle in Lula, Georgia, injuring three passengers.\4\
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
        \1\ Justice Department Files Complaint Against Norfolk Southern to
    Stop Amtrak Passenger Train Delays, Department of Justice (Jul. 30,
    2024), https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-files-
    complaint-against-norfolk-southern-stop-amtrak-passenger-train.
        \2\ Id.
        \3\ Complaint  35(a), United States of America v. Norfolk Southern
    Corporation and Norfolk Southern Railway Company, No. 24-cv-02226
    (D.D.C. Jul. 30, 2024), https://www.justice.gov/opa/media/1362071/
    dl?inline (``On August 22, 2022, Crescent 19 was delayed for 55 minutes
    when it was forced to follow Norfolk Southern train 29S-22 for 115
    miles from Bremen, Georgia, to Birmingham, Alabama, because there were
    no sidings along the route long enough to accommodate Norfolk Southern
    train 29S-22'').
        \4\ Pickup truck hit by train in Lula, all three occupants injured,
    access WDUN (Jul. 30, 2024), https://accesswdun.com/article/2024/7/
    1255087/travel-issues-in-banks-county-following-train-collision-with-
    pickup-truck.

        Question 1. If confirmed as a member of the Amtrak Board of
    Directors, how will you promote a stronger partnership and improve
    communication with freight rail carriers to improve safety and on-time
    performance on the National Network?
        Answer. Delays are especially apparent on western routes where the
    long distances encourage even longer freight trains. The Southwest
    Chief and Zephyr have the worst on-time performance in the system as a
    result. These delays plague other regions as well, as you noted in the
    Southeast. I commit to working on this issue if confirmed. There is no
    magic bullet but finding solutions to the congestion that is
    exacerbated by the interactions of passenger and freight rail on rail
    corridors to improve movement for both passenger rail and freight must
    be successful if the passenger rail system in the U.S. is to live up to
    its promise of access for all Americans. There are models such as the
    Capitol Corridor in California and others that Amtrak should explore
    and pilot. I have always been skilled at building relationships that
    move issues forward and will work to understand and know freight
    railroad people and the challenges they face. As a board member I will
    bring these issues to the forefront. It is likely that these solutions
    will require adequate and stable infrastructure and operations funding
    to fully address.
        I am unfamiliar with the accident in Lula Georgia. Safety has to be
    a top priority and I will learn about the causes of that crash and
    learn what response Amtrak has taken to prevent such crashes in the
    future. If there are systemic issues that have been discovered, I will
    push to address that safety issue systemically.
    Amtrak Expansion in the Southeast
        The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which I was proud to support,
    includes nearly $13 billion for Amtrak grants for activities associated
    with the National Network and over $1.3 billion in funding for the
    Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to carry out railroad safety
    activities. On December 8, 2023, FRA announced selections through the
    Corridor Identification and Development Program to create a pipeline of
    intercity passenger rail projects ready for implementation and future
    investment.\5\ These selections include three grants, totaling $1.5
    million, to explore new passenger rail routes across Georgia and into
    neighboring states.\6\ The Fiscal Year 2025 Transportation, Housing and
    Urban Development government funding bill also includes $10 million for
    Amtrak to build a new intercity passenger rail hub station in
    Atlanta.\7\ This support is a good starting point, but there is clearly
    more work to be done to expand rail access in Georgia and the greater
    southeast.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
        \5\ President Biden Announces $8.2 Billion in New Grants for High-
    Speed Rail and Pipeline of Projects Nationwide, Federal Railroad
    Administration (Dec. 8, 2023), https://railroads.dot.gov/about-fra/
    communications/newsroom/press-releases/president-biden-announces-82-
    billion-new-grants.
        \6\ FY22 Corridor Identification and Development Program
    Selections, Federal Railroad Administration (Dec. 8, 2023), https://
    railroads.dot.gov/sites/fra.dot.gov/files/2023-12/FY22%20CID
    %20Project%20Summaries-Map-r1.pdf.
        \7\ Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related
    Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025, S. 4796, 118th Cong. (2024).

        Question 1. In general, does the presence of passenger rail service
    increase commercial, business, and tourism opportunities?
        Answer. Passenger rail has repeatedly shown positive economic
    benefits. Looking just at costs is the wrong way to analyze new
    service, we must project the economic gain and when that is done that
    gain is significant. Amtrak's many services return between $7 billion
    and $8 billion each year to our Nation's GDP four times what we
    typically invest in the service. With the increased authorization that
    GDP impact is also increasing

        Question 2. Will you commit to comprehensively analyzing the
    feasibility and economic potential of these routes?
        Answer. Amtrak must conduct such analysis to prioritize the new
    service that will be recommended by the FRA long distance service
    study. One flaw in that study is that it did not explore economic gain
    other than a very cursory look based on assumptions applied to other
    data. There are models, such as the one designed by southern
    Mississippi University that can be applied to that analysis. If
    confirmed, I will ask that a model is identified and used to help
    Amtrak prioritize the new service and study existing service to help
    the board make decisions and so Americans understand the benefits of
    Amtrak service.

        Question 3. How do centralized, modern rail hub stations, like the
    new proposed Atlanta rail hub station, support passenger rail ridership
    and improve the ridership experience?
        Answer. The expanded national network envisions the new rail hub
    activity for passenger rail in Atlanta and Dallas on the national
    network overlaying the state supported CID corridors and the preferred
    long-distance routes. By learning from the success of the hubs along
    the Northeast Corridor and the services that meet in Chicago it's clear
    that dense networks of interconnecting routes benefit riders with more
    destinations and boosts the economic activity at the hub and support
    these expansions as sufficient funding is authorized. If confirmed, as
    an Amtrak Board member, I will also be interested in ensuring that
    Amtrak does all it can to make the passenger experience in ticketing,
    transferring between routes and the onboard experience as seamless and
    convenient as possible.

        Question 4. Will you commit to exploring all opportunities to
    improve the Atlanta and Savannah Amtrak stations to prepare them for
    passenger rail expansion?
        Answer. In my experience station improvements are best achieved
    through strong partnerships that include local interests and
    stewardship. There are myriad programs in IIJA that can support these
    improvements and if confirmed I would work as a board member to ensure
    that the needed partnerships are nurtured and utilized to find and
    support applications for the appropriate grants to complete this work.
                                     ______

    Response to Written Question Submitted by Hon. Shelley Moore Capito to
                                  Elaine Clegg
        Question 1. I know that you are an advocate for long-haul Amtrak
    routes. Both the Cardinal route and Capitol Limited are critical to
    West Virginia. Right now, the Cardinal route operates 3 times a week
    and serves 8 stations. It gives my state important connections with
    major cities, but we need it to run daily in order to really boost the
    economy as well as the visitor experience. West Virginia is a beautiful
    place and should be accessible 7 days a week on this line, and I know
    that Amtrak received funding to begin working towards daily service.
    Aside from more appropriated funds, what other ways could long-haul
    routes be prioritized more? If confirmed, can you commit to working
    towards the goal of daily service on the Cardinal route?
        Answer. Frequency on long-distance services is key to building
    ridership and reliability. Applications for restoration of the Cardinal
    and the Sunset Limited to daily service were both chosen as Corridor
    Identification program (CID) projects and work has begun to assess the
    cost and operating challenges of that service. As such it is my
    understanding that the assessment of FRA is to recommend restoring
    those to daily service as part of the recommendation, they intend to
    make on for the Long-Distance Service Study as preferred routes. If
    confirmed I commit to growing the national long-distance network not
    just in the west but to work toward implementing all of the
    recommendations on service and preferred routes form the study. This
    includes the Cardinal. While the funding in IIJA is a tremendous step
    up from previous levels it may not be sufficient given the long neglect
    of growing the network. I look forward to working with Amtrak, the
    administration and congress in identifying and working toward the level
    of funding that may be needed for these improvements.

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