The Transportation Committee accepted an amendment to SB 1144 that would permit the Rail Preservation Fund to use up to 50% of a locality’s share of Commonwealth Rail Fund monies for short‑line railroad preservation and safety projects. The amendment, requested by the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation, sets a flexible ceiling rather than removing an existing $4,000,000 cap.

Sponsor Senator Obenshane explained the short lines carry agricultural and industrial products vital to Virginia’s economy. Rob O’Hannon of the Virginia Railroad Association listed affected short lines, including Delmarva Central Railroad, Chesapeake & Albemarle Railroad, Commonwealth Railway, North Carolina and Virginia Railroad, Winchester & Western, and others that serve poultry, feed, and export industries.

The committee voted to report SB 1144 as amended and re‑refer it to the Finance Committee; Ayes 15, No 0.

Votes on SB 1144
Motion: report as amended and re‑refer to Finance. Mover: not specified. Second: not specified. Vote: Ayes 15, No 0. Outcome: reported as amended and re‑referred to Finance.