Hotline #91-A - June 22, 1999

The House's fiscal 2000 transportation bill, H.R.2084, did not go to the House floor today -- but more likely will tomorrow, June 23. House leaders are expected to approve the rules of debate later today, and we do not currently expect any rail-related cuts at that point in the process.

However, we have learned of a possible floor amendment to H.R.2084 by Rep. Joel Hefley (R.-Colo.) that would cut Amtrak funding to $457 million. The amount now in H.R.2084 (which is the amount requested by Amtrak) is $571 million, or 6% below current levels. Hefley's amendment would leave Amtrak with a 25% cut below current levels.

Yet every other major transportation program is due for an increase, ranging from 4% to 7% for highways, Coast Guard, transit, and aviation.

A success for Hefley would be a huge threat to Amtrak's finances and operations in 2000, as well as to Amtrak's achieving its Congressional mandate of operational self-sufficiency by 2002.

Even if you've already done so this month, ask your Representative right away to oppose any amendment to cut Amtrak funding. Your message needs to be short, sweet, and quick. The Capitol Switchboard is 202/224-3121.