Trent Lott: “I am concerned about Amtrak's future. Though Congress has worked to ensure its continued existence, the Administration…”

“I am concerned about Amtrak's future. Though Congress has worked to ensure its continued existence, the Administration has yet to fulfill its statutory responsibilities which are necessary if Amtrak is to have any hope of turning into a viable operation. As my colleagues well know, the Senate has invested countless hours during the past several Congresses to enact legislation that would enable Amtrak to reinvent itself, both operationally and financially. After three long years, Congress achieved a bipartisan reform package that was signed into law by the President on December 2, 1997. This package, the Amtrak Reform and Accountability Act, was touted as Amtrak's 'last chance.' It provided significant changes, allowing Amtrak to operate more like a business. Congress expected Amtrak to immediately begin implementing the many reform provisions. Certain responsibilities concerning Amtrak's future were assumed by Amtrak's union and management employees, the American taxpayers, Congress and the Administration.”