Senate Commerce Committee advances Batory FRA nomination
Written by William C. Vantuono, Editor-in-ChiefThe U.S. Senate Committee on Science, Commerce and Transportation on Aug. 2 favorably recommended, by voice vote, the appointment of Ronald L. Batory as the next Federal Railroad Administrator.
Batory’s nomination went to the full Senate for confirmation on Aug. 3. However, his confirmation has been delayed by New Jersey and New York’s Senate delegation—Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), Kirsten Gillibrand ((D-N.Y.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Robert Menendez (D-N.J.)—over what they say is concern that the federal government will not provide funding for the Gateway Project on the Northeast Corridor.
The Senate is now in recess for a summer break, following an extended session called for by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.).
As such, Batory is unlikely to be confirmed prior to the Labor Day weekend.
The industry has been behind Batory’s appointment from the beginning of the federal-appointee process. An example:
“The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association congratulates Ron Batory in the successful confirmation vote from the Senate Commerce Committee,” .said ASLRRA President Linda Bauer Darr. “We look forward to his full confirmation as quickly as possible. Mr. Batory is a safety professional that will lead the FRA in a reasoned path towards rail safety assurance. He understands the needs and challenges of small business railroads as well as the larger regional railroads.”
The White House on July 11 announced that President Donald Trump nominated Batory, who recently retired as President and Chief Operating Officer of Conrail following a 46-year railroading career.
Click HERE to read more about Ron Batory and his qualifications as FRA Administrator.
