Reject Cuts to Amtrak to Support Green Transportation

I am writing to express my concern regarding the proposed budget cuts to Amtrak, as outlined in H.R. 4820, the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2024. These cuts are deeply concerning, especially in light of the urgent need to address climate change. A recent federal report on transportation decarbonization highlights that Amtrak is significantly more energy-efficient than other modes of transportation. Specifically, it is 34% more energy-efficient than air travel and 46% more energy-efficient than car travel on a per-mile basis. The extent of carbon reduction varies by route and whether trains are electric or diesel-powered, but Amtrak is generally about half as carbon-intensive as flying. The proposed legislation suggests a 64% reduction in Amtrak funding from the 2023 levels and an 85% decrease in funding for the Federal Transit Administration's primary capital program. Notably, the bill includes a drastic 92% cut in funding for the Northeast Corridor, a crucial rail line that supports over 2,200 trains daily. This bill also risks discontinuing Amtrak service for numerous cities and small towns, many of which lack alternative intercity transportation options like buses or regional airports. Given the environmental benefits of rail travel, I believe we should be expanding, not reducing, Amtrak's services. I urge you to oppose H.R. 4820 and support sustainable transportation initiatives that align with our environmental goals.