Freight railroads : industry health has improved, but concerns about competition and capacity should be addressed : report to Congressional requesters

1036593PDFTech Reporthttp://ntl.bts.gov/lib/26000/26800/26871/d0794.pdfGAO-07-94NTIS-PB2007100150Railroad trafficFreight serviceShipmentsRatesEconomic conditionsCompetitionFederal governmentPolicyUnited StatesUnited States. Government Accountability OfficeUnited States. Government Accountability OfficeNTL-RAIL TRANSPORTATION-Rail Planning and PolicyNTL-RAIL TRANSPORTATION-Rail Economics and FinanceNTL-FREIGHT-Freight Planning and PolicyNTL-FREIGHT-Freight Economics and FinanceUS Transportation CollectionThe Staggers Rail Act deregulated the freight rail industry, relying on competition to set rates, and allowed for differential pricing (charging higher rates to those more dependent on rail). The act gave the Surface Transportation Board (STB) authority to develop remedies for shippers \ue2\u20ac\u153captive\ue2\u20ac? to one railroad and set a threshold for shippers to apply for rate relief. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) was asked to review (1) changes in the railroad industry since the Staggers Rail Act, including rates and competition; (2) STB actions to address competition and captivity concerns and alternatives that could be considered; and (3) freight demand and capacity projections and potential federal policy responses. GAO examined STB data, conducted interviews, and held an expert panel. /Abstract from report, p. [2]