As America's intercity passenger railroad and its only current operator of high-speed service, Amtrak stated the rail section of the new federal surface transportation reauthorization bill being developed by Congress should include top five priorities:

1. Provide dedicated, multiyear funding for intercity and high-speed rail;
2. Establish a national investment strategy;
3. Create a clear and leading role for Amtrak;
4. Ensure coordinated corridor planning and project execution; and
5. Address liability and insurance issues.

"If our nation's intercity passenger rail system -- and the transportation system of the United States as a whole -- is to be developed and sustained, it is imperative that Amtrak and other federal rail programs be integrated into a comprehensive and truly multi-modal surface transportation authorization bill," McHugh said.

The subcommittee met April 7 to hear testimony regarding "Railroad and Hazardous Materials Transportation Programs: Reforms and Improvements to Reduce Regulatory Burdens."

McHugh's written testimony is available at bit.ly/Amtrak040711. Testimony of the other 18 witnesses at last week's subcommittee hearing, a video of the hearing, and a briefing memo are available at 1.usa.gov/HRPHMS040711.