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Save Amtrak
Please send a message to Congress asking them to preserve the nation’s rail passenger system by fully funding Amtrak!
| Sample Letter for Campaign |
Subject: Save Amtrak
Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,
Please pass legislation that fully funds Amtrak for the coming fiscal year. We spend far more on highways and aviation than we have on Amtrak and we need a balanced transportation system that provides a viable alternative to travel by automobile or commercial airliner. This is especially true after the events of September 11.
Every nation that has passenger rail service subsidizes its operation. Amtrak is no different. It, like all the world's passenger rail, cannot exist as a for-profit business model. Amtrak is a public service, and like all worthwhile public services, it deserves public support. Since 1971, Amtrak has received little more than 3 percent of the amount allocated for the other two parts of our transportation system, highways and aviation.
Only the Federal government can develop a national railroad passenger transportation infrastructure. This infrastructure is needed to relieve the pressure on our highways and our airports. It is in everyone's interest to have safe, efficient and cost-effective rail passenger services.
Don't destroy our passenger rail system! Pass legislation that fully funds Amtrak.
Sincerely,
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Campaign Launched:
February 16, 2005
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For the past several years, the current administration has railed (no pun) against Amtrak, trying to break it up and turn it over to the states. This year the President has proposed zero funding outside the Northeast corridor. David Gunn, Amtrak’s President and CEO, has said that it is clear through this action that the administration has no plan for Amtrak.
Amtrak is perilously close to being forced to shut down passenger rail service to millions of Americans. An Amtrak shut down would also impact several commuter railroads, which have agreements with Amtrak to provide service. Thousands of IBEW members will be laid off unnecessarily.
The Rail Passenger Service Act of 1970 established Amtrak to provide passenger rail services in the United States as a public service. At the time of Amtrak’s formation, freight railroads were losing money on unprofitable passenger rail operations.
Since 1971, Amtrak has received little more than 3 percent of the amount allocated for the other two parts of our transportation system, highways and aviation.
There is a need for a balanced transportation system that provides a viable alternative to travel by automobile or commercial airliner. This need is particularly evident after the events of September 11. A balanced transportation system could also lead to a reduced United States reliance on foreign oil imports.
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