Summary: Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 - Title I: Authorizations - (Sec. 101) Authorizes appropriations for FY2009-FY2013 for: (1) Amtrak capital and operating grants, including capital grants to states, to the Amtrak Office of the Inspector General, and for accessibility improvements and barrier removal for individuals with disabilities; (2) Amtrak repayment of long-term debt and capital leases; and (3) the rail cooperative research program. Authorizes appropriations for FY2009 for grants to Amtrak and states participating in the Next Generation Corridor Train Equipment Pool Committee. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to withhold up to one-half of 1% of certain funds for the costs of project management oversight of capital projects carried out by Amtrak.(Sec. 102) Authorizes appropriations for costs associated with Amtrak early buyouts.(Sec. 104) Requires the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), working with Amtrak, the city of Baltimore, the state of Maryland, and non-Amtrak rail operators to: (1) approve a new rail tunnel alignment in Baltimore that will allow an increase in train speed and service reliability; and (2) ensure completion of the related environmental review process. Authorizes appropriations for FY2009-FY2013.(Sec. 105) Bars the use of funds to employ unauthorized alien workers.(Sec. 106) Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority to finance in part the capital and preventive maintenance projects included in its Capital Improvement Program. Conditions the availability of funds, in part, on assurance that each licensed wireless provider serving the public within the rail system has access to the system on an ongoing basis. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: Amtrak Reform and Operational Improvements - (Sec. 201) Amends federal transportation law to define the national rail passenger transportation system as: (1) Amtrak's Boston-Washington Northeast Corridor; (2) high-speed corridors designated by the Secretary once they have been improved for high-speed service; (3) long-distance routes (of greater than 750 miles) operated on the date of enactment of this Act; and (4) short-distance routes operated by Amtrak or a non-Amtrak recipient of federal capital assistance.Authorizes Amtrak and a state, regional or local authority, or another person to agree on the operation of an intercity route or service not included in the national rail transportation system.Declares that this Act does not preclude Amtrak from restoring, improving, or developing non-high-speed intercity passenger rail service.(Sec. 202) Replaces the Amtrak Reform Board with a reconstituted Board of Directors of Amtrak, with revised composition requirements.(Sec. 203) Authorizes the Amtrak Board of Directors to employ an independent financial consultant with experience in railroad accounting to assist Amtrak in improving Amtrak's financial accounting and reporting system and practices.Requires the Amtrak Board to: (1) implement a modern financial accounting and reporting system; (2) submit to Congress each fiscal year through FY2013 a report that allocates Amtrak's revenues and costs to each of its routes and lines of business; and (3) develop a five-year financial plan.(Sec. 205) Directs the Secretary to establish substantive and procedural requirements for grant requests, including a 30-day approval process.(Sec. 206) Directs the Amtrak Board to develop and implement a single methodology for allocating train route operating and capital costs among states and Amtrak.(Sec. 207) Requires the FRA Administrator and Amtrak to develop jointly new or improve existing metrics and minimum standards for measuring the performance and service quality of intercity passenger train operations. (Sec. 208) Requires Amtrak to develop a Northeast Corridor state-of-good-repair capital project spending plan.(Sec. 209) Directs the Secretary to establish a Northeast Corridor Infrastructure and Operations Advisory Commission. Directs Amtrak to determine the infrastructure and equipment improvements necessary to provide regular Acela service between Washington, DC, and New York City and between New York City and Boston within specified periods of time. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 210) Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to make agreements to restructure Amtrak's long-term debt and capital leases.(Sec. 211) Directs Amtrak to evaluate improvements necessary to make all existing intercity rail stations readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities by 2010. Requires the FRA to monitor and conduct periodic reviews of Amtrak's compliance in making its services and facilities accessible to such individuals.(Sec. 213) Permits a state to make an agreement with Amtrak to use facilities and equipment of, or have services provided by, Amtrak, under terms agreed to by the state and Amtrak, to enable the state to utilize an entity other than Amtrak to provide services required for operation of the route. (Sec. 214) Repeals Amtrak self-sufficiency requirements.(Sec. 215) Directs the Inspector General of the Department of Transportation (DOT) to assess progress made by Amtrak management and the DOT in implementing this Act. (Sec. 216) Requires the Comptroller General of the United States to determine the cost and benefits of expanding passenger rail service options in underserved communities. (Sec. 217) Authorizes the Secretary to make congestion grants to states, or to Amtrak in cooperation with states, for the capital costs of facilities and equipment for high priority rail corridor projects necessary to reduce congestion or facilitate ridership growth in intercity passenger rail transportation.(Sec. 218) Requires Amtrak to submit to Congress a plan for restoring passenger rail service between New Orleans, Louisiana, and Sanford, Florida. Authorizes appropriations.(Sec. 219) Directs the FRA to study and report to Congress on: (1) the extent to which Amtrak freight and passenger rail operations could use biofuel blends to power its fleet of locomotives; and (2) the feasibility of using biodegradable lubricants by Amtrak freight and passenger railroads. Authorizes appropriations.(Sec. 221) Subjects Amtrak to Buy American requirements for purchases of $100,000 or more.(Sec. 222) Directs the Inspector General of the DOT to: (1) develop metrics standards for evaluating the quality of performance and service of Amtrak intercity passenger rail services, including routes not currently served by Amtrak which might be able to support passenger rail service at a reasonable cost; (2) identify the five worst performing Amtrak routes; and (3) recommend to Congress a process for DOT to consider Amtrak and other proposals to serve underperforming routes and routes not currently served by Amtrak.(Sec. 223) Directs the Amtrak Inspector General to report to Congress on Amtrak's utilization of its facilities, including the Beech Grove Repair facility in Indiana.(Sec. 224) Directs the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to report to Congress on the effectiveness of preferring Amtrak service over freight transportation service.(Sec. 225) Directs the Secretary to: (1) find ways to streamline compliance with specified National Historic Preservation Act requirements for federally-funded railroad infrastructure repair and improvement projects; and (2) take immediate action to cooperate with named Alaska and North Carolina entities in expediting the decisionmaking process for safety-related projects involving railroad and Southeast High Speed Rail Corridor property and facilities that have disputed historic significance.(Sec. 226) Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) expanded commuter rail service between New Haven, Connecticut, and Springfield, Massachusetts, is an important transportation priority; and (2) Amtrak should work cooperatively with the states of Connecticut and Massachusetts to enable such expanded service.(Sec. 227) Directs Amtrak to evaluate for Congress the passenger rail service between Cornwells Heights, Pennsylvania, and New York City and between Princeton Junction, New Jersey, and New York City to determine whether to expand the service on such routes by increasing the frequency of stops or reducing commuter ticket prices.Title III: Intercity Passenger Rail Policy - (Sec. 301) Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to an applicant state, group of states, Interstate Compact, or public agency to assist in financing the capital costs of facilities, infrastructure, and equipment necessary to provide intercity passenger rail transportation.(Sec. 302) Authorizes states to prepare and maintain a state rail plan that: (1) sets forth state policy involving freight and passenger rail transportation (including commuter rail operations); and (2) includes a long-range rail investment program. Requires the Secretary to prescribe procedures for the review of state rail plans.(Sec. 303) Directs Amtrak to establish a Next Generation Corridor Equipment Pool Committee to design, develop specifications for, and procure standardized next-generation corridor equipment.(Sec. 304) Directs the Secretary to establish a rail cooperative research program to address intercity rail passenger and freight rail services, including ways to expand the transportation of international trade traffic, enhance the efficiency of intermodal interchange at ports and other intermodal terminals, and increase availability of rail service for seasonal freight needs. Directs the Secretary to establish an advisory board to recommend research, technology, and technology transfer activities related to rail passenger and freight transportation.(Sec. 305) Directs the Comptroller General to compare the U.S. passenger rail system with the passenger rail systems in Canada, Germany, Great Britain, France, China, Spain, and Japan and report findings to specified congressional committees.Title IV: Commuter Rail Transit Enhancement - (Sec. 401) Authorizes a public transportation authority or rail carrier to submit disputes over trackage use and railroad rights-of-way to the STB for nonbinding mediation.(Sec. 402) Requires Amtrak to engage in good faith discussions, with commuter rail entities and public transportation authorities operating on the same trackage owned by a rail carrier as Amtrak, with respect to: (1) the routing and timing of trains to most efficiently move, particularly during peak hours, the maximal number of commuters, intercity, and passenger rail passengers; and (2) the expansion and enhancement of commuter rail and regional rail public transportation service.Title V: High Speed Rail - (Sec. 501) Directs the Secretary to establish a high-speed rail corridor program. Authorizes the Secretary to make competitive grants to a state, a group of states, an Interstate Compact, a public agency, or Amtrak to finance capital projects in high-speed rail corridors. Authorizes appropriations for FY2009-FY2013. (Sec. 502) Directs the Secretary to: (1) solicit proposals for projects for an initial high-speed rail system between Washington, DC, and New York City (Northeast Corridor), as well as for additional projects on any other corridor; and (2) examine how to achieve maximum economic development of the Northeast Corridor. (Sec. 503) Directs the Secretary to conduct an alternatives analysis of the December 1, 1998, extension of the designation of the Southeast High-Speed Rail Corridor, including feasibility analyses of the expansion of the South Central High-Speed Rail Corridor to the Port of Houston, Texas, to Memphis, Tennessee, and south of San Antonio to a location in far south Texas to be chosen at the discretion of the Secretary.(Sec. 504) Sets forth certain grant conditions for projects funded under this title, including collective bargaining requirements.

passenger rail investment improvement act title authorizations sec authorizes appropriations fy2009 fy2013 amtrak capital operating grants including capital grants states accessibility improvements barrier removal individuals disabilities amtrak repayment long term debt capital leases rail cooperative research program authorizes appropriations fy2009 grants amtrak states participating generation corridor train equipment pool committee authorizes secretary transportation withhold half certain funds costs project management oversight capital projects carried authorizes appropriations costs associated amtrak early requires federal_railroad_administration fra working amtrak city baltimore state maryland rail operators approve new rail tunnel alignment baltimore allow increase train speed service reliability ensure completion related environmental review process authorizes appropriations bars use funds employ unauthorized alien authorizes secretary grants washington_metropolitan_area_transit_authority finance capital preventive maintenance projects included conditions availability funds assurance licensed wireless provider serving public rail system access system ongoing basis authorizes appropriations title amtrak reform operational improvements sec amends federal transportation law define national rail passenger transportation system amtrak boston washington northeast corridor high speed corridors designated secretary improved high speed service long distance routes greater miles operated date enactment act short distance routes operated amtrak non amtrak recipient federal capital assistance state regional local authority person agree operation intercity route service included national rail transportation system declares act preclude amtrak restoring improving developing non high speed intercity passenger rail replaces board_of_directors amtrak revised composition authorizes directors employ independent financial consultant experience railroad accounting assist amtrak improving amtrak financial accounting reporting system practices requires implement modern financial accounting reporting system submit congress fiscal year fy2013 report allocates amtrak revenues costs routes lines business develop year financial directs secretary establish substantive procedural requirements grant requests including day approval directs develop implement single methodology allocating train route operating capital costs states requires fra administrator amtrak develop jointly new improve existing metrics minimum standards measuring performance service quality intercity passenger train operations sec requires_amtrak develop northeast corridor state good repair capital project spending directs secretary establish northeast corridor infrastructure operations advisory commission directs amtrak determine infrastructure equipment improvements necessary provide regular service washington new_york_city new_york_city boston specified periods time authorizes appropriations sec authorizes secretary treasury agreements restructure amtrak long term debt capital directs amtrak evaluate improvements necessary existing intercity rail stations readily accessible usable individuals disabilities requires fra monitor conduct periodic reviews amtrak compliance making services facilities accessible permits state agreement amtrak use facilities equipment services provided amtrak terms agreed state amtrak enable state utilize entity amtrak provide services required operation route sec repeals amtrak self sufficiency directs inspector general department_of_transportation dot assess progress amtrak management dot implementing act sec requires comptroller general united_states determine cost benefits expanding passenger rail service options underserved communities sec authorizes secretary congestion grants states amtrak cooperation states capital costs facilities equipment high priority rail corridor projects necessary reduce congestion facilitate ridership growth intercity passenger rail requires_amtrak submit congress plan restoring passenger rail service new_orleans louisiana florida authorizes directs fra study report congress extent amtrak freight passenger rail operations use biofuel blends power fleet locomotives feasibility biodegradable amtrak freight passenger railroads authorizes buy american requirements purchases directs inspector general dot develop metrics standards evaluating quality performance service amtrak intercity passenger rail services including routes currently served amtrak able support passenger rail service reasonable cost identify worst performing amtrak routes recommend congress process dot consider amtrak proposals serve underperforming routes routes currently served directs report congress amtrak utilization facilities including facility directs surface_transportation_board stb report congress effectiveness amtrak service freight transportation directs secretary find ways streamline compliance specified national historic preservation act requirements federally funded railroad infrastructure repair improvement projects immediate action cooperate named alaska north_carolina entities expediting decisionmaking process safety related projects involving railroad southeast high speed rail corridor property facilities disputed historic expresses sense congress expanded commuter rail service connecticut springfield massachusetts important transportation priority amtrak work cooperatively states connecticut massachusetts enable expanded directs amtrak evaluate congress passenger rail service pennsylvania new_york_city new_jersey new_york_city determine expand service routes increasing frequency stops reducing commuter ticket prices title iii intercity passenger rail policy sec authorizes secretary grants applicant state group states interstate_compact public agency assist financing capital costs facilities infrastructure equipment necessary provide intercity passenger rail authorizes states prepare maintain state rail plan sets forth state policy involving freight passenger rail transportation including commuter rail operations includes long range rail investment program requires secretary prescribe procedures review state rail directs amtrak establish design develop specifications procure standardized generation corridor directs secretary establish rail cooperative research program address intercity rail passenger freight rail services including ways expand transportation international trade traffic enhance efficiency intermodal interchange ports intermodal terminals increase availability rail service seasonal freight needs directs secretary establish advisory board recommend research technology technology transfer activities related rail passenger freight directs comptroller general compare passenger rail system passenger rail systems canada germany france china japan report findings specified congressional committees title commuter rail transit enhancement sec authorizes public transportation authority rail carrier submit disputes trackage use railroad rights way stb nonbinding requires_amtrak engage good faith discussions commuter rail entities public transportation authorities operating trackage owned rail carrier amtrak respect routing timing trains efficiently particularly peak hours number commuters intercity passenger rail passengers expansion enhancement commuter rail regional rail public transportation service title high speed rail sec directs secretary establish high speed rail corridor program authorizes secretary competitive grants state group states interstate_compact public agency amtrak finance capital projects high speed rail corridors authorizes appropriations fy2009 fy2013 sec directs secretary solicit proposals projects initial high speed rail system washington new_york_city northeast corridor additional projects corridor examine achieve maximum economic development northeast corridor sec directs secretary conduct alternatives analysis december extension designation southeast high speed rail corridor including feasibility analyses expansion south central high speed rail corridor port houston texas memphis tennessee south san_antonio location far south texas chosen discretion sets forth certain grant conditions projects funded title including collective bargaining requirements


Summary: Rail Infrastructure Development and Expansion Act for the 21st Century - Amends federal transportation law to authorize the Secretary of Transportation to designate high-speed rail infrastructure bonds if: (1) the bonds are issued by a state, or one or more of the states that have entered into an interstate compact under the Amtrak Reform and Accountability Act of 1997, or by such compact; (2) they are for financing projects that make a substantial contribution to providing the infrastructure required to complete a railroad passenger transportation corridor for high-speed intercity rail passenger service, or for projects for the Alaska Railroad; (3) for a railroad passenger transportation corridor design that includes the use of freight railroad rights-of-way, a written agreement exists between the applicant and the freight railroad regarding such use and other conditions are met; (4) the corridor design eliminates all existing railroad grade crossings that would impede high-speed rail operations; (5) the applicant agrees to comply with certain labor standards with respect to such project; and (6) the applicant agrees not to pay the principal or interest on the bonds using funds derived directly or indirectly from the Highway Trust Fund, except as permitted by existing law. Excludes the interest on such bonds from an individual's gross income. Requires any entity providing high-speed intercity passenger railroad transportation to negotiate over hiring and working conditions with the collective bargaining agent or agents of the employees of any existing rail passenger service it might be replacing. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow certain tax credits to holders of qualified high-speed rail infrastructure bonds.

21st century amends federal transportation law authorize secretary transportation designate high speed rail infrastructure bonds bonds issued state states entered interstate compact amtrak reform accountability act compact financing projects substantial contribution providing infrastructure required complete railroad passenger transportation corridor high speed intercity rail passenger service projects railroad passenger transportation corridor design includes use freight railroad rights way written agreement exists applicant freight railroad use conditions met corridor design eliminates existing railroad grade crossings impede high speed rail operations applicant agrees comply certain labor standards respect project applicant agrees pay principal interest bonds funds derived directly indirectly highway_trust_fund permitted existing law excludes interest bonds individual gross income requires entity providing high speed intercity passenger railroad transportation negotiate hiring working conditions collective bargaining agent agents employees existing rail passenger service replacing amends internal revenue code allow certain tax credits holders qualified high speed rail infrastructure bonds


Summary: Back on Track Act - Amends the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 to revise interest rate and credit risk premium requirements for direct loans and loan guarantees for construction or repair of railroad bridges located in disaster areas due to flooding beginning in 2008. Extends the term of repayment of direct loans or loan guarantees from 25 years to 35 years.

track act amends railroad revitalization regulatory reform act revise interest rate credit risk premium requirements direct loans loan guarantees construction repair railroad bridges located disaster areas flooding beginning extends term repayment direct loans loan guarantees years years


Summary: Requires the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) designate a rail right-of-way as a corridor for inter-suburban commuter rail based on certain qualifying factors and after a 30-day congressional review period; (2) provide technical assistance to expedite completion of inter-suburban rail service; and (3) prohibit increased usage of such corridor except to increase the availability of inter-suburban commuter rail.

requires secretary transportation designate rail right way corridor inter suburban commuter rail based certain qualifying factors day congressional review period provide technical assistance expedite completion inter suburban rail service prohibit increased usage corridor increase availability inter suburban commuter rail


Summary: Taking Responsible Action for Community Safety Act - Revises requirements with respect to the consolidation, merger, or acquisition of control (transaction) involving rail carriers to require public hearings in the affected communities if public hearings on a proposed transaction are held. Requires the Surface Transportation Board, in a proceeding with respect to a transaction that involves at least one Class I railroad (under current law, involving the merger or control of at least two Class I railroads), to consider the effect on the public interest, including the safety and environmental effect of the proposed merger on local communities, intercity rail passenger transportation, and commuter rail passenger transportation. Prohibits the Board from approving mergers if their impacts on safety and on all affected communities outweigh their transportation benefits. Authorizes the Board to impose conditions to mitigate the effect of mergers on local communities. Declares that the amendments made by this Act are to be applied to all transactions that have not been approved by the Board as of August 1, 2008.

taking responsible action community safety act revises requirements respect consolidation merger acquisition control transaction involving rail carriers require public hearings affected communities public hearings proposed transaction held requires surface_transportation_board proceeding respect transaction involves class railroad current law involving merger control class railroads consider effect public interest including safety environmental effect proposed merger local communities intercity rail passenger transportation commuter rail passenger transportation prohibits board approving mergers impacts safety affected communities outweigh transportation benefits authorizes board impose conditions mitigate effect mergers local communities declares amendments act applied transactions approved board august


Summary: Rail Collision Prevention Act - Requires each rail carrier that is a Class I railroad, that has inadequate safety performance, or that provides intercity passenger or commuter rail passenger transportation to develop and submit for Secretary of Transportation approval by December 31, 2014, a plan to implement a positive train control system that prevents rail collisions. Requires implementation of such systems by December 31, 2012, in areas that have the highest safety risk due to shared track between commuter and freight rail. Increases penalties for violations of rail safety regulations or orders issued by the Secretary, including violations related to rail accident reporting and hours-of-service.

rail collision prevention act requires rail carrier class railroad inadequate safety performance provides intercity passenger commuter rail passenger transportation develop submit secretary transportation approval december plan implement positive train control system prevents rail collisions requires implementation systems december areas highest safety risk shared track commuter freight rail increases penalties violations rail safety regulations orders issued secretary including violations related rail accident reporting hours service


Summary: Rail Security Act of 2007 - Directs the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to conduct a vulnerability assessment of freight and passenger rail transportation, and develop specific prioritized recommendations for improving rail security. Directs the Assistant Secretary to conduct a study on requiring security screening for passengers, baggage, and cargo on passenger trains. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make grants to Amtrak for fire and life-safety improvements and infrastructure upgrades to tunnels on the Northeast Corridor. Directs Amtrak to submit to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) a plan to address the needs of families of passengers involved in rail passenger accidents. Authorizes the Assistant Secretary to award grants to Amtrak for certain system-wide Amtrak, freight, hazardous materials transportation, and passenger rail security upgrades. Directs the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration to set forth certain standards for welded rail and tank car safety improvements. Sets forth certain whistleblower protections for rail employees or other persons providing information about perceived security threats.

rail security act directs assistant secretary homeland_security transportation_security_administration tsa conduct vulnerability assessment freight passenger rail transportation develop specific prioritized recommendations improving rail security directs assistant secretary conduct study requiring security screening passengers baggage cargo passenger trains authorizes secretary transportation grants amtrak fire life safety improvements infrastructure upgrades tunnels northeast corridor directs amtrak submit national_transportation_safety_board ntsb plan address needs families passengers involved rail passenger accidents authorizes assistant secretary award grants amtrak certain system wide amtrak freight hazardous materials transportation passenger rail security upgrades directs administrator federal_railroad_administration set forth certain standards rail tank car safety improvements sets forth certain whistleblower protections rail employees persons providing information perceived security threats


Summary: Surface Transportation and Rail Security Act of 2007 - Title I: Improved Rail Security - (Sec. 101) Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the Department of Transportation (DOT), and other appropriate agencies, to establish a task force to complete a risk assessment of freight and passenger rail transportation. Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security, based on the assessment, to develop specific prioritized recommendations for improving rail security. Requires the development of plans for: (1) the federal government to provide adequate security support for freight and intercity passenger railroads at high threat levels of alert; (2) coordinating existing and planned rail security initiatives undertaken by the public and private sectors; and (3) the continued movement of freight and passengers in the event of an attack against the railroad system. Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to submit to Congress a report containing the assessment, prioritized recommendations, and plans, including an estimate of the cost to implement such recommendations. Earmarks certain funds for FY2008 to carry out this section. (Sec. 102) Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security make grants to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) for certain systemwide security upgrades. Requires that the award of such grants be for projects contained in an approved systemwide security plan that includes measures to address security awareness, emergency response, and passenger evacuation training. Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2010. (Sec. 103) Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make grants to Amtrak for certain fire and life-safety improvements and infrastructure upgrades to Amtrak tunnels on the Northeast Corridor. Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2010. Earmarks an amount for FY2008 for the preliminary design of options for a new tunnel on a different alignment to augment the capacity of the existing Baltimore tunnels. Prohibits the Secretary of Transportation from making funds available to Amtrak for such upgrades until Amtrak has submitted, and the Secretary of Transportation has approved, an engineering and financial plan and a project management plan. (Sec. 104) Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to make grants to freight railroads, including the Alaska Railroad, Amtrak, hazardous materials shippers, universities and research centers, and state and local governments for certain freight and passenger for activities to prevent or respond to acts of terrorism or sabotage. Requires that the award of such grants be for projects contained in an approved systemwide security plan that includes measures to address security awareness, emergency response, and passenger evacuation training. Sets forth prioritized allocation requirements, limiting the award of grants for rail security upgrades to no more than $45 million to Amtrak, or no more than $80 million for the transportation of hazardous materials by rail. Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2010. (Sec. 105) Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security, through the Under Secretary for Science and Technology and the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (TSA), to carry out a research and development (R&D) program to improve freight and intercity passenger rail security. Requires the Secretary to coordinate the R&D program with other R&D initiatives at the DHS and DOT. Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2010. (Sec. 106) Sets forth oversight requirements with respect to, and procedures for, the award of grants under this Act. (Sec. 107) Directs Amtrak to submit to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the Secretary of Transportation, and the Secretary of Homeland Security a plan to address the needs of families of passengers involved in rail passenger accidents involving an Amtrak intercity train and resulting in a loss of life. Limits Amtrak's liability for damages in any action brought in a federal or state court arising out of its performance in preparing or providing a passenger list, or in providing information concerning a train reservation, unless such liability is caused by Amtrak's conduct. Earmarks amounts to Amtrak for FY2008 to carry out this section. (Sec. 108) Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Secretary of Transportation, heads of other appropriate federal departments and agencies, and Amtrak to report to Congress on the current system for preclearance and screening of rail and airline passengers and baggage, as well as freight railroad traffic, between the United States and Canada, including progress on a rail passenger preclearance protocol. (Sec. 109) Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to develop and issue guidance for a rail worker security training program to prepare front-line workers for potential threat conditions. Requires rail carriers to: (1) develop a rail worker security training program based on such guidance and submit it for review by the Secretary of Homeland Security; and (2) not later than one year after such review, complete the training of all front-line workers. (Sec. 110) Sets forth certain whistleblower protections for rail employees or other persons who have provided information regarding a reasonably perceived threat to security to the employer, federal government, or Congress, or who have refused to violate or assist in the violation of any regulation related to rail security. (Sec. 111) Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to require rail carriers transporting high hazardous materials to develop high hazard material security risk mitigation plans containing appropriate measures (including alternative routing and temporary shipment suspension options) to address assessed risks to high consequence targets. Requires rail carriers transporting high hazardous materials on a right-of-way to institute such plans when the threat levels of the Homeland Security Advisory System are high or severe or specific intelligence of probable or imminent threat exist to: (1) a high-consequence target being within the catastrophic impact zone of the railroad right-of-way used to transport high hazardous material; or (2) rail infrastructure or operations being within the immediate vicinity of such target. (Sec. 112) Sets forth civil penalties for violators of regulations prescribed or orders issued by the Secretary of Homeland Security with respect to rail security. (Sec. 113) Authorizes a rail police officer of one rail carrier to be temporarily assigned for duty to another rail carrier. Requires the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) develop model state legislation with respect to entities that do not provide rail transportation but claim to be rail carriers in order to establish and run a police force; and (2) make such legislation available to state governments. (Sec. 114) Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to develop a national plan for public outreach to increase awareness of measures that the general public, railroad passengers, and railroad employees can take to increase railroad system security. (Sec. 115) Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to develop a program to encourage the equipping of rail cars transporting high hazard materials with wireless communications technology. Earmarks certain funds for FY2008-FY2010 to carry out this section. (Sec. 116) Authorizes appropriations to: (1) TSA for FY2008-FY2010 for rail security; and (2) DOT for FY2008-FY2011 for the whistleblower protection program and the Amtrak plan to assist families of passengers involved in rail passenger accidents. Title II: Improved Motor Carrier, Bus, and Hazardous Material Security - (Sec. 201) Directs the Secretary of Transportation to, among other things: (1) document existing and proposed routes for the transportation of radioactive and non-radioactive hazardous materials by motor carrier, and develop a framework for using a Geographic Information System-based approach to characterize routes in the National Hazardous Materials Route Registry; (2) document the concerns of the public, motor carriers, and State, local, territorial, and tribal governments about the highway routing of hazardous materials; (3) develop a tool that will enable State officials to examine potential routes for the highway transportation of hazardous material and assess specific security risks associated with each route and explore alternative mitigation measures; (4) complete an assessment of the safety and national security benefits of existing requirements for route plans for explosives and radioactive materials; and (5) require motor carriers that have a hazardous material safety permit to operate in transporting hazardous materials to maintain written or electronic route plans that meet certain requirements if the Secretary of Transportation determines, under the assessment, that such requirement would enhance the nation's security and safety without imposing unreasonable costs or burdens upon motor carriers. Requires the Secretary of Transportation to report to Congress on assessment findings and conclusions. (Sec. 202) Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to develop a program to encourage the tracking of motor carrier shipments of high hazard materials with communications technology that provides continuous communications and tracking capabilities. Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2010. (Sec. 203) Directs the Secretary of Transportation and the Secretary Homeland Security to execute and develop an annex to the memorandum of agreement between the DOT and DHS signed on September 28, 2004, governing the roles, responsibilities, resources and commitments of the two departments in addressing motor carrier transportation security matters. (Sec. 204) Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish within the TSA a program for reviewing hazardous materials security plans of offerers or carriers of hazardous materials. Sets forth civil penalties for failure of an offerer, carrier, or other person to comply with certain requirements for the transportation of hazardous materials. Requires the Secretary of Transportation to study the extent insurance, security, and safety costs borne by railroad carriers, motor carriers, pipeline carriers, air carriers, and maritime carriers transporting hazardous materials are reflected in rates paid by offerers of such commodities as compared to the costs and rates for the transporting of non-hazardous materials. Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2010. (Sec. 205) Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to submit to Congress a report assessing truck security. (Sec. 206) Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security, in conjunction with the Secretary of Transportation, to consider the development of a national public sector response system to respond to accidents, threats, and other safety and security risks or incidents. Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to report to Congress on the costs to establish such system. Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2010. (Sec. 207) Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to make grants to private operators of over-the-road buses or over-the-road-bus terminal operators for certain system-wide security improvements to their operations. Prohibits the Secretary of Homeland Security from making a grant to a private operator of over-the-road buses until the operator submits to the Secretary of Homeland Security a plan for making the security improvements. Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to submit to Congress an assessment of the over-the-road bus security grant program. Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2010. (Sec. 208) Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to develop a Pipeline Security and Incident Recovery Protocols Plan that includes: (1) the federal government providing increased security support to critical interstate and intrastate natural gas and hazardous liquid transmission pipeline infrastructure and operations during high or severe security threat levels of alert; and (2) incident recovery protocols to ensure continued transportation of natural gas and hazardous liquids in the event of an incident. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress on such plan. (Sec. 209) Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to: (1) establish a program to review pipeline operator adoption of certain federal pipeline recommendations, including the review of pipeline security plans and critical facility inspections; (2) develop a plan for reviewing the pipeline security plan and an inspection of the critical facilities of the 100 most critical pipelines operators; and (3) develop security recommendations for natural gas and hazardous liquid pipelines and pipeline facilities. Requires, in reviewing pipeline compliance, the utilization of risk assessment methodologies to prioritize risks and to target inspection and enforcement actions to the highest risk pipeline assets. Authorizes appropriations for FY2008 and FY2009. (Sec. 210) Prohibits a state from issuing a license to a person to operate a motor vehicle to transport a hazardous material unless the Secretary of Homeland Security (current law, Secretary of Transportation) has determined that such person does not pose a security risk. Requires a state to issue a hazardous material license to a person without such risk determination provided the person meets all other requirements, if the Secretary of Homeland Security has previously determined that such person is not a security risk and has been issued a transportation security card. (Sec. 211) Declares that statutory provisions limiting the number of TSA employees before or after TSA's transfer to DHS shall not apply to the extent that such employees are responsible for implementing this Act. (Sec. 212) Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to conduct, and submit to Congress, a maritime and surface transportation security user fee study.

security act title improved rail security sec directs secretary homeland_security department_of_homeland_security dhs including transportation_security_administration tsa department_of_transportation dot appropriate agencies establish task force complete risk assessment freight passenger rail transportation requires secretary homeland_security based assessment develop specific prioritized recommendations improving rail security requires development plans federal government provide adequate security support freight intercity passenger railroads high threat levels alert coordinating existing planned rail security initiatives undertaken public private sectors continued movement freight passengers event attack railroad system requires secretary homeland_security submit congress report containing assessment prioritized recommendations plans including estimate cost implement recommendations earmarks certain funds fy2008 carry section sec authorizes secretary homeland_security grants national_railroad_passenger_corporation amtrak certain security upgrades requires award grants projects contained approved security plan includes measures address security awareness emergency response passenger evacuation training authorizes appropriations fy2008 fy2010 sec authorizes secretary transportation grants amtrak certain fire life safety improvements infrastructure upgrades amtrak tunnels northeast corridor authorizes appropriations fy2008 fy2010 earmarks fy2008 preliminary design options new tunnel different alignment augment capacity existing baltimore tunnels prohibits secretary transportation making funds available amtrak upgrades amtrak submitted secretary transportation approved engineering financial plan project management plan sec authorizes secretary homeland_security grants freight railroads including alaska railroad amtrak hazardous materials shippers universities research centers state local governments certain freight passenger activities prevent respond acts terrorism sabotage requires award grants projects contained approved security plan includes measures address security awareness emergency response passenger evacuation training sets forth prioritized allocation requirements limiting award grants rail security upgrades million amtrak million transportation hazardous materials rail authorizes appropriations fy2008 fy2010 sec directs secretary homeland_security secretary science_and_technology assistant secretary homeland_security tsa carry research development program improve freight intercity passenger rail security requires secretary coordinate program initiatives dhs dot authorizes appropriations fy2008 fy2010 sec sets forth oversight requirements respect procedures award grants act sec directs amtrak submit national_transportation_safety_board ntsb secretary transportation secretary homeland_security plan address needs families passengers involved rail passenger accidents involving amtrak intercity train resulting loss life limits amtrak liability damages action brought federal state court arising performance preparing providing passenger list providing information concerning train reservation liability caused amtrak conduct earmarks amounts amtrak fy2008 carry section sec directs secretary homeland_security secretary transportation heads appropriate federal departments agencies amtrak report congress current system preclearance screening rail airline passengers baggage freight railroad traffic united_states canada including progress rail passenger preclearance protocol sec directs secretary homeland_security develop issue guidance rail worker security training program prepare line workers potential threat conditions requires rail carriers develop rail worker security training program based guidance submit review secretary homeland_security later year review complete training line workers sec sets forth certain whistleblower protections rail employees persons provided information reasonably perceived threat security employer federal government congress refused violate assist violation regulation related rail security sec directs secretary homeland_security require rail carriers transporting high hazardous materials develop high hazard material security risk mitigation plans containing appropriate measures including alternative routing temporary shipment suspension options address assessed risks high consequence targets requires rail carriers transporting high hazardous materials right way institute plans threat levels homeland security advisory system high severe specific intelligence probable imminent threat exist high consequence target catastrophic impact zone railroad right way transport high hazardous material rail infrastructure operations immediate vicinity target sec sets forth civil penalties violators regulations prescribed orders issued secretary homeland_security respect rail security sec authorizes rail police officer rail carrier temporarily assigned duty rail carrier requires secretary transportation develop model state legislation respect entities provide rail transportation claim rail carriers order establish run police force legislation available state governments sec directs secretary homeland_security develop national plan public outreach increase awareness measures general public railroad passengers railroad employees increase railroad system security sec directs secretary homeland_security develop program encourage equipping rail cars transporting high hazard materials wireless communications technology earmarks certain funds fy2008 fy2010 carry section sec authorizes appropriations tsa fy2008 fy2010 rail security dot whistleblower protection program amtrak plan assist families passengers involved rail passenger accidents title improved motor carrier bus directs secretary transportation things document existing proposed routes transportation radioactive non radioactive hazardous materials motor carrier develop framework geographic information system based approach characterize routes document concerns public motor carriers state local territorial tribal governments highway routing hazardous materials develop tool enable state officials examine potential routes highway transportation hazardous material assess specific security risks associated route explore alternative mitigation measures complete assessment safety national security benefits existing requirements route plans explosives radioactive materials require motor carriers hazardous material safety permit operate transporting hazardous materials maintain written electronic route plans meet certain requirements secretary transportation determines assessment requirement enhance nation security safety imposing unreasonable costs burdens motor carriers requires secretary transportation report congress assessment findings conclusions sec requires secretary homeland_security develop program encourage tracking motor carrier shipments high hazard materials communications technology provides continuous communications tracking capabilities authorizes appropriations fy2008 fy2010 sec directs secretary transportation secretary homeland_security execute develop annex memorandum agreement dot dhs signed september governing roles responsibilities resources commitments departments addressing motor carrier transportation security matters sec directs secretary homeland_security establish tsa program reviewing hazardous materials security plans carriers hazardous materials sets forth civil penalties failure carrier person comply certain requirements transportation hazardous materials requires secretary transportation study extent insurance security safety costs borne railroad carriers motor carriers pipeline carriers air carriers maritime carriers transporting hazardous materials reflected rates paid commodities compared costs rates transporting non hazardous materials authorizes appropriations fy2008 fy2010 sec requires secretary homeland_security submit congress report assessing truck security sec directs secretary homeland_security conjunction secretary transportation consider development national public sector response system respond accidents threats safety security risks incidents requires secretary homeland_security report congress costs establish system authorizes appropriations fy2008 fy2010 sec directs secretary homeland_security grants private operators road buses road bus terminal operators certain system wide security improvements operations prohibits secretary homeland_security making grant private operator road buses operator submits secretary homeland_security plan making security improvements requires secretary homeland_security submit congress assessment road bus security grant program authorizes appropriations fy2008 fy2010 sec directs secretary homeland_security develop incident recovery protocols plan includes federal government providing increased security support critical interstate intrastate natural gas hazardous liquid transmission pipeline infrastructure operations high severe security threat levels alert incident recovery protocols ensure continued transportation natural gas hazardous liquids event incident requires secretary report congress plan sec directs secretary homeland_security establish program review pipeline operator adoption certain federal pipeline recommendations including review pipeline security plans critical facility inspections develop plan reviewing pipeline security plan inspection critical facilities critical pipelines operators develop security recommendations natural gas hazardous liquid pipelines pipeline facilities requires reviewing pipeline compliance utilization risk assessment methodologies prioritize risks target inspection enforcement actions highest risk pipeline assets authorizes appropriations fy2008 fy2009 sec prohibits state issuing license person operate motor vehicle transport hazardous material secretary homeland_security current law secretary transportation determined person pose security risk requires state issue hazardous material license person risk determination provided person meets requirements secretary homeland_security previously determined person security risk issued transportation security card sec declares statutory provisions limiting number tsa employees tsa transfer dhs shall apply extent employees responsible implementing act sec directs secretary homeland_security conduct submit congress maritime surface transportation security user fee study


Summary: Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 - Title I: Authorizations - (Sec. 101) Authorizes appropriations for FY2009-FY2013 for: (1) Amtrak capital and operating grants, including capital grants to states, to the Amtrak Office of the Inspector General, and for accessibility improvements and barrier removal for individuals with disabilities; (2) Amtrak repayment of long-term debt and capital leases; and (3) the rail cooperative research program. Authorizes appropriations for FY2009 for grants to Amtrak and states participating in the Next Generation Corridor Train Equipment Pool Committee. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to withhold up to one-half of 1% of certain funds for the costs of project management oversight of capital projects carried out by Amtrak. (Sec. 102) Authorizes appropriations for costs associated with Amtrak early buyouts. (Sec. 104) Requires the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), working with Amtrak, the city of Baltimore, the state of Maryland, and non-Amtrak rail operators to: (1) approve a new rail tunnel alignment in Baltimore that will allow an increase in train speed and service reliability; and (2) ensure completion of the related environmental review process. Authorizes appropriations for FY2009-FY2013. (Sec. 105) Bars the use of funds to employ unauthorized alien workers. (Sec. 106) Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority to finance in part the capital and preventive maintenance projects included in its Capital Improvement Program. Conditions the availability of funds, in part, on assurance that each licensed wireless provider serving the public within the rail system has access to the system on an ongoing basis. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: Amtrak Reform and Operational Improvements - (Sec. 201) Amends federal transportation law to define the national rail passenger transportation system as: (1) Amtrak's Boston-Washington Northeast Corridor; (2) high-speed corridors designated by the Secretary once they have been improved for high-speed service; (3) long-distance routes (of greater than 750 miles) operated on the date of enactment of this Act; and (4) short-distance routes operated by Amtrak or a non-Amtrak recipient of federal capital assistance. Authorizes Amtrak and a state, regional or local authority, or another person to agree on the operation of an intercity route or service not included in the national rail transportation system. Declares that this Act does not preclude Amtrak from restoring, improving, or developing non-high-speed intercity passenger rail service. (Sec. 202) Replaces the Amtrak Reform Board with a reconstituted Board of Directors of Amtrak, with revised composition requirements. (Sec. 203) Authorizes the Amtrak Board of Directors to employ an independent financial consultant with experience in railroad accounting to assist Amtrak in improving Amtrak's financial accounting and reporting system and practices. Requires the Amtrak Board to: (1) implement a modern financial accounting and reporting system; (2) submit to Congress each fiscal year through FY2013 a report that allocates Amtrak's revenues and costs to each of its routes and lines of business; and (3) develop a five-year financial plan. (Sec. 205) Directs the Secretary to establish substantive and procedural requirements for grant requests, including a 30-day approval process. (Sec. 206) Directs the Amtrak Board to develop and implement a single methodology for allocating train route operating and capital costs among states and Amtrak. (Sec. 207) Requires the FRA Administrator and Amtrak to develop jointly new or improve existing metrics and minimum standards for measuring the performance and service quality of intercity passenger train operations. (Sec. 208) Requires Amtrak to develop a Northeast Corridor state-of-good-repair capital project spending plan. (Sec. 209) Directs the Secretary to establish a Northeast Corridor Infrastructure and Operations Advisory Commission. Directs Amtrak to determine the infrastructure and equipment improvements necessary to provide regular Acela service between Washington, DC, and New York City and between New York City and Boston within specified periods of time. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 210) Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to make agreements to restructure Amtrak's long-term debt and capital leases. (Sec. 211) Directs Amtrak to evaluate improvements necessary to make all existing intercity rail stations readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities by 2010. Requires the FRA to monitor and conduct periodic reviews of Amtrak's compliance in making its services and facilities accessible to such individuals. (Sec. 213) Permits a state to make an agreement with Amtrak to use facilities and equipment of, or have services provided by, Amtrak, under terms agreed to by the state and Amtrak, to enable the state to utilize an entity other than Amtrak to provide services required for operation of the route. (Sec. 214) Repeals Amtrak self-sufficiency requirements. (Sec. 215) Directs the Inspector General of the Department of Transportation (DOT) to assess progress made by Amtrak management and the DOT in implementing this Act. (Sec. 216) Requires the Comptroller General of the United States to determine the cost and benefits of expanding passenger rail service options in underserved communities. (Sec. 217) Authorizes the Secretary to make congestion grants to states, or to Amtrak in cooperation with states, for the capital costs of facilities and equipment for high priority rail corridor projects necessary to reduce congestion or facilitate ridership growth in intercity passenger rail transportation. (Sec. 218) Requires Amtrak to submit to Congress a plan for restoring passenger rail service between New Orleans, Louisiana, and Sanford, Florida. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 219) Directs the FRA to study and report to Congress on: (1) the extent to which Amtrak freight and passenger rail operations could use biofuel blends to power its fleet of locomotives; and (2) the feasibility of using biodegradable lubricants by Amtrak freight and passenger railroads. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 221) Subjects Amtrak to Buy American requirements for purchases of $100,000 or more. (Sec. 222) Directs the Inspector General of the DOT to: (1) develop metrics standards for evaluating the quality of performance and service of Amtrak intercity passenger rail services, including routes not currently served by Amtrak which might be able to support passenger rail service at a reasonable cost; (2) identify the five worst performing Amtrak routes; and (3) recommend to Congress a process for DOT to consider Amtrak and other proposals to serve underperforming routes and routes not currently served by Amtrak. (Sec. 223) Directs the Amtrak Inspector General to report to Congress on Amtrak's utilization of its facilities, including the Beech Grove Repair facility in Indiana. (Sec. 224) Directs the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to report to Congress on the effectiveness of preferring Amtrak service over freight transportation service. (Sec. 225) Directs the Secretary to: (1) find ways to streamline compliance with specified National Historic Preservation Act requirements for federally-funded railroad infrastructure repair and improvement projects; and (2) take immediate action to cooperate with named Alaska and North Carolina entities in expediting the decisionmaking process for safety-related projects involving railroad and Southeast High Speed Rail Corridor property and facilities that have disputed historic significance. (Sec. 226) Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) expanded commuter rail service between New Haven, Connecticut, and Springfield, Massachusetts, is an important transportation priority; and (2) Amtrak should work cooperatively with the states of Connecticut and Massachusetts to enable such expanded service. (Sec. 227) Directs Amtrak to evaluate for Congress the passenger rail service between Cornwells Heights, Pennsylvania, and New York City and between Princeton Junction, New Jersey, and New York City to determine whether to expand the service on such routes by increasing the frequency of stops or reducing commuter ticket prices. Title III: Intercity Passenger Rail Policy - (Sec. 301) Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to an applicant state, group of states, Interstate Compact, or public agency to assist in financing the capital costs of facilities, infrastructure, and equipment necessary to provide intercity passenger rail transportation. (Sec. 302) Authorizes states to prepare and maintain a state rail plan that: (1) sets forth state policy involving freight and passenger rail transportation (including commuter rail operations); and (2) includes a long-range rail investment program. Requires the Secretary to prescribe procedures for the review of state rail plans. (Sec. 303) Directs Amtrak to establish a Next Generation Corridor Equipment Pool Committee to design, develop specifications for, and procure standardized next-generation corridor equipment. (Sec. 304) Directs the Secretary to establish a rail cooperative research program to address intercity rail passenger and freight rail services, including ways to expand the transportation of international trade traffic, enhance the efficiency of intermodal interchange at ports and other intermodal terminals, and increase availability of rail service for seasonal freight needs. Directs the Secretary to establish an advisory board to recommend research, technology, and technology transfer activities related to rail passenger and freight transportation. (Sec. 305) Directs the Comptroller General to compare the U.S. passenger rail system with the passenger rail systems in Canada, Germany, Great Britain, France, China, Spain, and Japan and report findings to specified congressional committees. Title IV: Commuter Rail Transit Enhancement - (Sec. 401) Authorizes a public transportation authority or rail carrier to submit disputes over trackage use and railroad rights-of-way to the STB for nonbinding mediation. (Sec. 402) Requires Amtrak to engage in good faith discussions, with commuter rail entities and public transportation authorities operating on the same trackage owned by a rail carrier as Amtrak, with respect to: (1) the routing and timing of trains to most efficiently move, particularly during peak hours, the maximal number of commuters, intercity, and passenger rail passengers; and (2) the expansion and enhancement of commuter rail and regional rail public transportation service. Title V: High Speed Rail - (Sec. 501) Directs the Secretary to establish a high-speed rail corridor program. Authorizes the Secretary to make competitive grants to a state, a group of states, an Interstate Compact, a public agency, or Amtrak to finance capital projects in high-speed rail corridors. Authorizes appropriations for FY2009-FY2013. (Sec. 502) Directs the Secretary to: (1) solicit proposals for projects for an initial high-speed rail system between Washington, DC, and New York City (Northeast Corridor), as well as for additional projects on any other corridor; and (2) examine how to achieve maximum economic development of the Northeast Corridor. (Sec. 503) Directs the Secretary to conduct an alternatives analysis of the December 1, 1998, extension of the designation of the Southeast High-Speed Rail Corridor, including feasibility analyses of the expansion of the South Central High-Speed Rail Corridor to the Port of Houston, Texas, to Memphis, Tennessee, and south of San Antonio to a location in far south Texas to be chosen at the discretion of the Secretary. (Sec. 504) Sets forth certain grant conditions for projects funded under this title, including collective bargaining requirements.

passenger rail investment improvement act title authorizations sec authorizes appropriations fy2009 fy2013 amtrak capital operating grants including capital grants states accessibility improvements barrier removal individuals disabilities amtrak repayment long term debt capital leases rail cooperative research program authorizes appropriations fy2009 grants amtrak states participating generation corridor train equipment pool committee authorizes secretary transportation withhold half certain funds costs project management oversight capital projects carried amtrak sec authorizes appropriations costs associated amtrak early sec requires federal_railroad_administration fra working amtrak city baltimore state maryland rail operators approve new rail tunnel alignment baltimore allow increase train speed service reliability ensure completion related environmental review process authorizes appropriations fy2009 fy2013 sec bars use funds employ unauthorized alien workers sec authorizes secretary grants washington_metropolitan_area_transit_authority finance capital preventive maintenance projects included conditions availability funds assurance licensed wireless provider serving public rail system access system ongoing basis authorizes appropriations title amtrak reform operational improvements sec amends federal transportation law define national rail passenger transportation system amtrak boston washington northeast corridor high speed corridors designated secretary improved high speed service long distance routes greater miles operated date enactment act short distance routes operated amtrak non amtrak recipient federal capital assistance state regional local authority person agree operation intercity route service included national rail transportation system declares act preclude amtrak restoring improving developing non high speed intercity passenger rail service sec replaces board_of_directors amtrak revised composition requirements sec authorizes directors employ independent financial consultant experience railroad accounting assist amtrak improving amtrak financial accounting reporting system practices requires implement modern financial accounting reporting system submit congress fiscal year fy2013 report allocates amtrak revenues costs routes lines business develop year financial plan sec directs secretary establish substantive procedural requirements grant requests including day approval process sec directs develop implement single methodology allocating train route operating capital costs states amtrak sec requires fra administrator amtrak develop jointly new improve existing metrics minimum standards measuring performance service quality intercity passenger train operations sec requires_amtrak develop northeast corridor state good repair capital project spending plan sec directs secretary establish northeast corridor infrastructure operations advisory commission directs amtrak determine infrastructure equipment improvements necessary provide regular service washington new_york_city new_york_city boston specified periods time authorizes appropriations sec authorizes secretary treasury agreements restructure amtrak long term debt capital leases sec directs amtrak evaluate improvements necessary existing intercity rail stations readily accessible usable individuals disabilities requires fra monitor conduct periodic reviews amtrak compliance making services facilities accessible individuals sec permits state agreement amtrak use facilities equipment services provided amtrak terms agreed state amtrak enable state utilize entity amtrak provide services required operation route sec repeals amtrak self sufficiency requirements sec directs inspector general department_of_transportation dot assess progress amtrak management dot implementing act sec requires comptroller general united_states determine cost benefits expanding passenger rail service options underserved communities sec authorizes secretary congestion grants states amtrak cooperation states capital costs facilities equipment high priority rail corridor projects necessary reduce congestion facilitate ridership growth intercity passenger rail transportation sec requires_amtrak submit congress plan restoring passenger rail service new_orleans louisiana florida authorizes appropriations sec directs fra study report congress extent amtrak freight passenger rail operations use biofuel blends power fleet locomotives feasibility biodegradable amtrak freight passenger railroads authorizes appropriations sec buy american requirements purchases sec directs inspector general dot develop metrics standards evaluating quality performance service amtrak intercity passenger rail services including routes currently served amtrak able support passenger rail service reasonable cost identify worst performing amtrak routes recommend congress process dot consider amtrak proposals serve underperforming routes routes currently served amtrak sec directs report congress amtrak utilization facilities including facility indiana sec directs surface_transportation_board stb report congress effectiveness amtrak service freight transportation service sec directs secretary find ways streamline compliance specified national historic preservation act requirements federally funded railroad infrastructure repair improvement projects immediate action cooperate named alaska north_carolina entities expediting decisionmaking process safety related projects involving railroad southeast high speed rail corridor property facilities disputed historic significance sec expresses sense congress expanded commuter rail service connecticut springfield massachusetts important transportation priority amtrak work cooperatively states connecticut massachusetts enable expanded service sec directs amtrak evaluate congress passenger rail service pennsylvania new_york_city new_jersey new_york_city determine expand service routes increasing frequency stops reducing commuter ticket prices title iii intercity passenger rail policy sec authorizes secretary grants applicant state group states interstate_compact public agency assist financing capital costs facilities infrastructure equipment necessary provide intercity passenger rail transportation sec authorizes states prepare maintain state rail plan sets forth state policy involving freight passenger rail transportation including commuter rail operations includes long range rail investment program requires secretary prescribe procedures review state rail plans sec directs amtrak establish design develop specifications procure standardized generation corridor equipment sec directs secretary establish rail cooperative research program address intercity rail passenger freight rail services including ways expand transportation international trade traffic enhance efficiency intermodal interchange ports intermodal terminals increase availability rail service seasonal freight needs directs secretary establish advisory board recommend research technology technology transfer activities related rail passenger freight transportation sec directs comptroller general compare passenger rail system passenger rail systems canada germany france china japan report findings specified congressional committees title commuter rail transit enhancement sec authorizes public transportation authority rail carrier submit disputes trackage use railroad rights way stb nonbinding mediation sec requires_amtrak engage good faith discussions commuter rail entities public transportation authorities operating trackage owned rail carrier amtrak respect routing timing trains efficiently particularly peak hours number commuters intercity passenger rail passengers expansion enhancement commuter rail regional rail public transportation service title high speed rail sec directs secretary establish high speed rail corridor program authorizes secretary competitive grants state group states interstate_compact public agency amtrak finance capital projects high speed rail corridors authorizes appropriations fy2009 fy2013 sec directs secretary solicit proposals projects initial high speed rail system washington new_york_city northeast corridor additional projects corridor examine achieve maximum economic development northeast corridor sec directs secretary conduct alternatives analysis december extension designation southeast high speed rail corridor including feasibility analyses expansion south central high speed rail corridor port houston texas memphis tennessee south san_antonio location far south texas chosen discretion secretary sec sets forth certain grant conditions projects funded title including collective bargaining requirements


Summary: Railroad Competition and Service Improvement Act of 2007 - Sets forth Surface Transportation Board directives calling for effective competition among rail carriers and reliable rail transportation service for rail customers.Requires a rail carrier, upon shipper request, to establish rates for transportation and provide requested service between any two points on the carrier's system. Prohibits the Board from issuing a certificate authorizing construction and operation of railroad lines, short line purchases by Class II and Class III rail carriers, or consolidation, merger, and acquisition of control of rail carriers, or exempt from such certificate requirements any person, transaction, or service with respect to such activity, if the activity involves a transfer of interest in a line of railroad, from a Class I rail carrier to a Class II or III rail carrier, and the activity would: (1) restrict the ability of the Class II or Class III rail carrier to interchange traffic with other rail carriers; (2) restrict competition of rail carriers in the region affected by the activity in a manner that would violate U.S. antitrust laws; or (3) require higher per car interchange rates for Class II or Class III rail carriers to interchange traffic with other rail carriers. Prescribes procedures for Board review of any activity alleged to have resulted in a restriction of competition.Makes mandatory (currently, discretionary) entry by rail carriers into reciprocal switching agreements where the Board finds it is practicable and in the public interest, or where such agreements are necessary to provide competitive rail service. Requires the Board to designate any state or substantial part of a state as an area of inadequate rail competition after making certain findings.Requires the Board to post rail service complaints on its website. Sets forth time limits for the Board to act on complaints filed alleging unlawfulness of a new or revised rail rate, rule, or practice.Establishes the Office of Rail Customer Advocacy.Grants rail customers access to a Board process for determining rail rate reasonableness in railroad market dominance cases.Requires submission to arbitration of certain rail rate, service, and other disputes.Authorizes the Board to investigate rail carrier violations on its own initiative (under current law, the Board is authorized to investigate only on complaint). Requires the Board (currently, discretionary) to initiate an investigation upon receiving a complaint alleging rail carrier violations.

sets forth surface_transportation_board directives calling effective competition rail carriers reliable rail transportation service rail customers requires rail carrier shipper request establish rates transportation provide requested service points carrier system prohibits board issuing certificate authorizing construction operation railroad lines short line purchases class class iii rail carriers consolidation merger acquisition control rail carriers exempt certificate requirements person transaction service respect activity activity involves transfer interest line railroad class rail carrier class iii rail carrier activity restrict ability class class iii rail carrier interchange traffic rail carriers restrict competition rail carriers region affected activity manner violate antitrust laws require higher car interchange rates class class iii rail carriers interchange traffic rail carriers prescribes procedures board review activity alleged resulted restriction competition makes mandatory currently discretionary entry rail carriers reciprocal switching agreements board finds practicable public interest agreements necessary provide competitive rail service requires board designate state substantial state area inadequate rail competition making certain findings requires board post rail service complaints website sets forth time limits board act complaints filed alleging new revised rail rate rule practice customer advocacy grants rail customers access board process determining rail rate reasonableness railroad market cases requires submission arbitration certain rail rate service disputes authorizes board investigate rail carrier violations initiative current law board authorized investigate complaint requires board currently discretionary initiate investigation receiving complaint alleging rail carrier violations


Summary: Railroad Crossing and Hazardous Materials Transport Safety Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to conduct a review of the safety of all highway-rail grade crossings in the United States and to submit to Congress a priority list of highway-rail grade crossings most in need of safety improvements. Directs the Secretary to: (1) maintain a national database of information on the safety of highway-rail grade crossings; (2) investigate the cause of each fatal crossing accident; and (3) prescribe regulations for improving crossing safety, maintenance, and surveillance. Establishes the position of Special Advisor for Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Safety in the office of the Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy. Requires annual safety reviews by crossing inspectors. Increases civil penalties for crossing safety requirement violations. Authorizes grants for enforcement of crossing safety laws, rail infrastructure safety improvements, and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Increases civil penalties for violations of hazardous materials transportation requirements. Requires revocation of any compliance order if a railroad carrier commits a gross violation of such order that results in a hazardous materials accident. Sets inspection requirements for tank cars carrying hazardous materials. Requires a rail carrier to provide comprehensive lists of all hazardous materials scheduled to be transported through a state to a state homeland security coordinator if requested. Directs the Secretary to double the number of hazardous materials inspectors employed by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

directs secretary transportation conduct review safety highway rail grade crossings united_states submit congress priority list highway rail grade crossings need safety improvements directs secretary maintain national database information safety highway rail grade crossings investigate cause fatal crossing accident prescribe regulations improving crossing safety maintenance surveillance establishes position special advisor highway rail grade crossing safety office secretary requires annual safety reviews crossing inspectors increases civil penalties crossing safety requirement violations authorizes grants enforcement crossing safety laws rail infrastructure safety improvements compliance americans disabilities act increases civil penalties violations hazardous materials transportation requirements requires revocation compliance order railroad carrier commits gross violation order results hazardous materials accident sets inspection requirements tank cars carrying hazardous materials requires rail carrier provide comprehensive lists hazardous materials scheduled transported state state homeland security coordinator requested directs secretary double number hazardous materials inspectors employed federal_railroad_administration fra