FY13 Study of Rail Transportation and Regulation

The study (Congressionally mandated) shall address and make recommendations on?(1) the performance of the Nation?s major railroads regarding service levels, service quality, and rates; (2) the projected demand for freight transportation over the next two decades and the constraints limiting the railroads? ability to meet that demand; (3) the effectiveness of public policy in balancing the need for railroads to earn adequate returns with those of shippers for reasonable rates and adequate service; and (4) the future role of the Surface Transportation Board in regulating railroad rates, service levels, and the railroads? common carrier obligations, particularly as railroads may become revenue adequate.