[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 97 (Thursday, June 12, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1218]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          PERSONAL EXPLANATION

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. AL GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 12, 2008

  Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Madam Speaker, today I was unavoidably delayed 
and missed the vote on Final Passage of H.R. 6003, the Passenger Rail 
Investment and Improvement Act (rollcall 400). H.R. 6003 passed by a 
vote of 311-104; Had I been present I would have voted ``yea'' on 
rollcall 400.
  I would also like to offer my firm support for the Passenger Rail and 
Improvement Act, H.R. 6003. At a time when gas prices have reached a 
national average of $4.05 a gallon, this bipartisan legislation is both 
timely and necessary to provide travelers with alternative 
transportation. This bill would authorize nearly $15 billion in funding 
for the national passenger railroad over the next five years. It 
encourages the development of new and improved intercity passenger rail 
services by creating a new grant program for intercity passenger rail 
services. It also paves the way for a high-speed rail system between 
Washington and New York City.
  Today it is increasingly evident that the United States cannot rely 
solely upon further massive construction of highways and airports to 
meet its transportation needs. To handle the tremendous tide of 
travelers, auto, air and bus system must be supplemented by a swift and 
efficient rail passenger service. It is vital to restore an essential 
balance to the total transportation complex.
  For nearly 40 years, Amtrak has provided intercity passenger railroad 
service, operating approximately 44 routes and over 22,000 miles of 
track. A record of 25.8 million passengers took Amtrak in the last 
fiscal year. With the climbing costs of driving, Amtrak expects 
ridership to approach 28 million this fiscal year. The passage of this 
legislation allows Amtrak to meet the increased demand by bringing much 
needed improvements to its infrastructure. In an effort to address our 
energy problems, enhanced intercity railway provides a cost-efficient 
solution. I support this legislation as we seek to offer relief from 
high fuel costs and alternatives to the American people.

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