116 House members urge full funding for Amtrak rail programs

Securing full funding for Amtrak rail programs for fiscal year 2027 is the priority for 116 House members. In addition, this bipartisan coalition aims to maintain the investment levels originally set by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Their goal is to keep the national rail network reliable for all commuters nationwide.

Protecting the progress of the Infrastructure Act

A formal letter reached the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies. At the same time, lawmakers warned that missing IIJA funding targets would jeopardize active repairs and expansion. Additionally, the group noted that key authorizations within the act are scheduled to expire on Sept. 30.

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Consistent support is vital for the Northeast Corridor and regional lines. Meanwhile, without these resources, the safety of existing rail infrastructure faces significant risks as federal authorizations reach their end dates.

Breakdown of requested rail investments

Specifically, the coalition is seeking $4.4 billion for Amtrak operations. This total includes $1.4 billion for the Northeast Corridor and $3 billion for the national network. Also, the appeal requests $1 billion for the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) program. Separately, the group wants $500 million for the Railroad Crossing Elimination program.

Grant Programs and Safety Investments

Further grant requests include $1.5 billion for the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail and $50 million for restoration efforts. U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.) led the initiative and spoke on the long-term value of these transit links. “America was built on the rail lines that connected our communities, created good-paying jobs, and drove our economy forward, and we have a responsibility to keep that promise alive,” said Moulton. “This goes beyond just funding trains. It’s about reducing congestion on our highways, investing in thousands of good-paying jobs, and connecting rural towns to urban centers.”

Representatives Sarah McBride, Brian Fitzpatrick, and Don Bacon joined Moulton in this effort. Still, their joint message stresses that steady rail programs are essential for public safety. Stalling these investments would hurt urban centers and rural towns alike.

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