Freights First Act
Summary
The "Freights First Act" aims to amend Title 49 of the United States Code, specifically Section 24308(c), to limit the preference given to Amtrak over freight transportation. This limitation applies to rail lines, junctions, and crossings located within 50 miles of a port or rail yard. The bill seeks to prioritize freight transportation in these specific areas, except in cases of emergency.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be a shift in priority on certain rail lines. Freight transportation would take precedence over Amtrak in specified zones near ports and rail yards. This could potentially impact the efficiency and timeliness of both freight and passenger rail services.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially improved efficiency for freight transportation near ports and rail yards.
- Could reduce congestion and delays for freight shipments.
- May lead to economic benefits for industries reliant on freight transport.
- Could lead to more reliable supply chains.
- May reduce costs for businesses that rely on freight transportation.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential delays and disruptions for Amtrak passenger rail services.
- Could negatively impact commuter rail services in affected areas.
- May increase travel times for passengers.
- Possible negative impact on Amtrak's financial performance.
- Potential for increased congestion on other transportation modes if rail is less efficient for passengers.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce, as outlined in Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 of the Constitution (the Commerce Clause). This clause grants Congress the authority to regulate trade among the states, which includes the regulation of railways and transportation. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).