Ohio Senate Budget Changes Could Make It Harder for Amtrak to Expand in Ohio, Advocates Say

The Koch Network Is Lobbying Against Rail Safety

In the wake of last year’s toxic train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, new legislation was proposed with the aim of making railways safer. But thanks to incessant lobbying from the Koch network and its web of conservative operatives, the bill has been all but killed.

Ohio Senate budget changes could make it harder for Amtrak to expand in Ohio, advocates say

Advocates for passenger rail in Ohio are pushing back against changes made by the Senate to the state budget, arguing it will make expanding passenger rail more difficult.The Senates version of the states two-year budget was released earlier this week.What does the budget say? The Senate removed the following provision passed by the House: Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Compact - Earmarks $25,000 in each fiscal year to pay for the cost for Oh…

All Aboard? Not Anymore—Ohio Senate Removes Passenger Rail Provisions

Ohio’s long-stalled dreams of expanded passenger rail service just hit another frustrating roadblock. Despite years of advocacy from residents, transit organizations, and even past legislative support, the Ohio Senate has removed two major provisions that would’ve helped the state reconnect to a broader rail network and strengthen its voice in shaping passenger rail development. In the latest state budget proposals, lawmakers: Cut language that…