[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 129 (Wednesday, September 18, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1632]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          THE FUTURE OF AMTRAK

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                         HON. NANCY L. JOHNSON

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 18, 1996

  Mrs. JOHNSON of Connecticut. Mr. Speaker, I am introducing 
legislation today that will create a 5-year dedicated capital funding 
program for Amtrak as it transitions away from Federal operating 
support. This proposal will redirect .5 cent of the existing 4.3 cents 
gas tax into a dedicated trust fund for Amtrak, allowing Amtrak to 
quickly reinvest in much needed capital improvements. The remaining 3.8 
cents in gas tax revenues will be shifted to the highway trust fund.
  Amtrak is an essential part of our national transportation system, 
providing 22 million intercity rail passenger trips per year to over 
500 destination in 45 States. In 1995, Congress and the administration 
both determined that Amtrak must reduce its reliance on Federal 
funding--directing Amtrak to operate without Federal support by the 
year 2002.
  Without adequate funding during this transition period, Amtrak cannot 
make the investments necessary to survive independently. Unfortunately, 
Amtrak will need an estimated $4 billion in capital improvements by 
2002 due to funding shortages in the 1980's. This new capital 
investment alternative is necessary to improve rolling stock, cars and 
locomotives, upgrade maintenance facilities, and prevent the 
deterioration of track and signal equipment. Unless Amtrak's capital 
equipment is improved, it will not be able to operate as a self-
sufficient entity as Congress directed.
  Between 1982 and 1994, travel on Amtrak rose 40 percent. A dedicated 
capital funding source will cut Amtrak's operating and maintenance 
costs, improving reliability and performance. Moreover, these upgrades 
will reduce air pollution, fuel consumption, highway congestion, and 
urban parking problems. I urge my colleagues to cosponsor this 
important piece of legislation.

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