July 25, 2025
Mr. Burlison (for himself, Mr. Perry, and Ms. Hageman) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
To amend title 49, United States Code, to limit the preference for Amtrak using rail lines, junctions, and crossings near ports and rail yards, and for other purposes.
Section 1. Short title
This Act may be cited as the Freights First Act
.
Sec. 2. Limitation of preference for Amtrak
Section 24308(c) of title 49, United States Code, is amended—
(1)
by striking Except in an emergency
and inserting the following:
(1) In general
Except as provided in paragraph (2) or in an emergency; and
(2)
by adding at the end the following:
(2) Limitation of preference
Intercity and commuter rail passenger transportation provided by or for Amtrak shall not have preference over freight transportation in using a rail line, junction, or crossing if such rail line, junction, or crossing is located within 50 miles of a port or rail yard.