AFPM disappointed by U.S. Court of Appeals decision limiting STB authority, urges Congress to engage

WASHINGTON, D.C. - American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) today issued the following statement from Rob Benedict, AFPM Vice President of Petrochemicals & Midstream, in response to the recent ruling limiting the Surface Transportation Board's (STB) authority.

"U.S. refiners and petrochemical manufacturers are dependent on reliable freight rail service as a critical part of their operations and supply chains. Unfortunately, widespread freight service issues continue to harm U.S. manufacturers and consequently consumers. These service issues, paired with a hamstrung rail oversight body - the Surface Transportation Board (STB) - made it virtually impossible for rail shippers to resolve service issues. AFPM is deeply disappointed with the Seventh Circuit's decision limiting STB's authority. This decision, along with other recent cases and STB's own decisions, highlights that there are indeed systemic freight rail issues, and STB does not have the necessary authority to address them.

There is a desperate need restore some competition to a rapidly consolidating industry and help to ensure customers receive quality, efficient service for the good of the entire U.S. economy. STB has recognized this, and tried to act, but are unable to do so under current authorities. All of this makes an even stronger case for Congress to engage and prioritize this issue."

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