CURE Letter of Support for Daniel Elliott
April 20, 2015
The Honorable John Thune, Chairman
Senate Commerce, Science & Transportation Committee
253 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
The Honorable Bill Nelson, Ranking Member
Senate Commerce, Science & Transportation Committee
253 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Dear Chairman Thune and Ranking Member Nelson:
Consumers United for Rail Equity (CURE) is a coalition representing freight rail shippers. CURE is working to educate the public on the impacts to consumers from railroad practices through a growing coalition of industries and associations.
We write to encourage the expeditious consideration of Daniel R. Elliott III to serve for a second term on the Surface Transportation Board (STB).
Mr. Elliott’s previous term, including his holdover period, expired December 3, 2014. President Obama nominated Mr. Elliott for a second term on January 13.
A vacancy at the STB creates uncertainties and delays for the rail shippers that rely on the Board to review rail rate and service disputes. The STB is a three member board, meaning that when there is a vacancy, a unanimous vote is needed to resource any pending matter. Given that most of the rate cases before the Board are litigated over a number of years, it is important that we do not face any unnecessary delays especially those caused by a board member vacancy.
During his previous tenure as STB Chairman, Mr. Elliott earned the respect and support of both shippers and railroads for his willingness to listen to all sides of an issue and his extensive outreach. While the shipping crisis of last fall and winter has eased, the underlying issues remain.
It is imperative that your Committee hold Mr. Elliott’s nomination hearing as soon as possible followed by prompt full Senate action.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Dave Sauer
President
