After many months of negotiations, H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed into law on July 4, 2025. H.R. 1 extends critical provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and adds several new provisions that were stated as a high priority for Congressional Republicans this Congress. “Among these are the […]
On the Ground at Railway Interchange 2025
By RSI Staff Thank you to everyone who attended Railway Interchange 2025. The event included over 4,000+ attendees from almost every state, 43 countries and nearly 500 exhibitors. While in Indianapolis we interviewed speakers, attendees and exhibitors about projects on the horizon, collaboration with others in the rail industry and evolution in technology in the […]
Laying Down the Tracks for Success
By RSI President Jim Riley Earlier this year, I was honored to step into the role of president for RSI, filling “big shoes” being preceded by Patty Long. The vision she and the board have laid out has significantly strengthened RSI. It’s clear I’ve been set up for success. It’s my intention to build upon […]
How the Current Legislative Landscape Is Impacting the Future of Passenger Rail
By RSI Staff As predicted by many at Railway Interchange last year, the Trump administration is bringing political changes that will significantly impact transportation funding. Ahead of this year’s event, we spoke with two Railway Interchange speakers, Husein Cumber, senior advisor, Brightline Holdings, and Robert Pearsall, partnerships director at U.S. High Speed Rail, to understand the […]
Making Sense of Tariffs and Inflation for Freight Rail
By RSI Staff Recent changes to economic and trade policies are fueling significant challenges within the freight rail industry. As decision-makers face uncertainty, particularly around rail traffic and equipment demand, many are left to wonder whether they should proceed with caution or move forward as planned. At Railway Interchange, taking place May 20-22 in Indianapolis, […]
Advancing Passenger Rail: Early Insights From the PRAC
By Patty Long The Passenger Rail Advisory Committee (PRAC), formed in the fall of 2024 under the Surface Transportation Board (STB), is an exciting development for the future of passenger rail in the United States. The committee, comprised of 21 individuals representing the rail industry across the country, is filled with enthusiasm and a shared […]
Rail Priorities for a New Administration: Q&A With Jack Isselmann, RSI GPAC Chair
By RSI Staff As the new presidential administration and Congress begin their terms, RSI is hard at work advocating for key legislative priorities that will shape the future of the rail industry. High on the agenda is the reauthorization of surface transportation funding, crucial for maintaining and improving the nation’s transportation infrastructure, and restoring critical […]
Quality, Technology, and Safety: Rail Priorities in 2025
By RSI Staff As the calendar turns to a new year, the rail industry remains laser focused on improving safety and reliability, with innovation and quality at the center. Jason Riggs, vice president of quality and technical services at Marmon Rail, believes the opportunities to enhance rail safety through new technologies are vast, paired with […]
The Evolution of U.S. Passenger Rail: Why Progress Matters
Passenger rail in the United States has entered an important phase of development. Over the past few years, significant groundwork has been laid, driven by new federal initiatives and promising ridership numbers. But this momentum can’t be taken for granted. Continued investment and development are key to realizing the full potential of passenger rail in […]
The Future of High-Speed Rail in America—and How Freight Can Benefit
By RSI Staff As demand for high-speed rail (HSR) continues to grow, the U.S. rail industry stands at the precipice of a transformative era. While many are familiar with HSR’s potential to revolutionize travel, fewer may appreciate the far-reaching benefits it can bring to the freight rail industry and broader rail ecosystem. According to Andy […]