HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 18

(By Mr. Speaker, Mr. Kiss, Delegate Boggs

and all other members of the House of Delegates)




Expressing support for Amtrak, the National Railroad Passenger Corporation.

Whereas, A national intermodal passenger transportation system is key to meeting the ever increasing transportation demands of the nation; and
Whereas, Intercity rail passenger service is an essential component of a national intermodal passenger transportation system; and
Whereas, The National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) provides a quality transportation product in the form of clean, comfortable and on-time service; and
Whereas, Amtrak has already been forced to significantly cut back its rail passenger system due to cash shortages; and
Whereas, Amtrak is committed to operate in a businesslike manner in order to adjust quickly to meet demand and changing customer needs; and
Whereas, Amtrak's management and employees are dedicated to providing the high quality service that Amtrak's customers deserve; and
Whereas, Additional capital investment is needed to acquire the modern equipment and efficient facilities that are essential to satisfy the demand for superior intercity rail passenger service and to provide the world class service American rail passengers deserve; and
Whereas, Amtrak's management is committed to ensuring that all capital investment by the federal government and state government is used effectively to improve the quality of service and the long- term financial health of Amtrak; and
Whereas, Amtrak's management and its employees are dedicated to using the collective bargaining process to reach equitable agreements that provide a sound basis for improved customer service and that contribute to the long-term viability of the corporation; and
Whereas, States, local governments and private parties continue to support intercity rail passenger service as an essential component of the intermodal transportation network in their states; and
Whereas, Amtrak provides excellent service to its customers, is using its federal investment wisely and efficiently and is making significant and measurable progress in improving the financial performance of intercity rail passenger service; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That Amtrak shall continue as the nation's premier intercity rail passenger service; that increased federal funds shall be provided to meet Amtrak's current needs and to face future challenges; and that state and local governments shall join with the federal government and private parties in support of Amtrak; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to all members of Congress from West Virginia and to Amtrak.