Amtrak Transparency and Accountability for Passengers and Taxpayers Act
Amtrak Transparency and Accountability for Passengers and Taxpayers Act
Plain Language Summary
# Amtrak Transparency and Accountability for Passengers and Taxpayers Act (HR 188) **What the Bill Does:** This bill would require Amtrak, the national passenger railroad service, to hold its board meetings in public—similar to transparency rules that apply to other federal agencies under the Government in the Sunshine Act. Currently, Amtrak operates with less transparency than many other government entities. The bill aims to give taxpayers and the public greater visibility into how Amtrak conducts business and spends federal funding. **Key Exceptions:** The bill includes standard exceptions allowing Amtrak to close meetings when discussing sensitive matters, including contract negotiations (to protect competitive interests), labor union negotiations, and personnel issues like hiring and firing decisions. However, if all employees involved in a personnel matter agree in writing, those discussions could still be held publicly. **Current Status and Impact:** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House.
If passed, it would primarily affect Amtrak's board operations and administrative transparency. Supporters argue it increases accountability for a taxpayer-funded agency, while it could face questions about whether increased transparency might hinder business negotiations. The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Republican Troy Nehls of Texas.
CRS Official Summary
Amtrak Transparency and Accountability for Passengers and Taxpayers ActThis bill directs Amtrak to comply with federal open meeting requirements under the Government in the Sunshine Act, with exceptions.Under the bill, certain open meeting requirements do not apply to any portion or portions of a meeting that Amtrak properly determines are likely to involvecontract negotiations, including negotiations for contract procurements and agreements, the disclosure of which would imperil or compromise Amtrak’s competitive position;collective bargaining agreements or any terms and conditions that are proposed for inclusion in an agreement; andmatters involving the employment, appointment, termination, terms and conditions of employment, performance evaluation, promotion, or disciplining of a current or prospective Amtrak officer, employee, or contractor (unless all affected individuals request in writing that the matter or matters be discussed at a public meeting).
Latest Action
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 113.