Background + Regulations
Railroad operations are heavily governed by federal laws. The Federal Railroad Administration administers most laws concerning the operation and safety of railroads.
The Surface Transportation Board has jurisdiction over railroad acquisitions. Their goal is to promote the efficient operation of rail lines without creating monopolies.
The Illinois Commerce Commission generally has jurisdiction over most roads and signal devices that cross rail tracks. Recently the Illinois State Supreme Court ruled that Illinois village governments have basically no authority over rail issues.
The Surface Transportation Board considers the CN acquisition of the EJ&E a minor issue. They ordered an Environmental Impact Study. The draft EIS has been recently published, and the public comment period goes until September 30. A STB decision is anticipated between December 1 and January 31.
A Toll-Free Project Information Line has been established to assist the public in participating in the EIS process:
1-800-347-0689.
