Jerry Moran Questions FRA Nominee David Fink on Modernizing Rail Safety and Technology

Modernizing FRA's Regulatory Approach

• 💡 Senator Moran emphasized the need to modernize the FRA's regulatory approach to allow railroads to innovate and deploy new safety technologies.
• ✅ Nominee David Fink committed to ensuring the FRA becomes a valued partner in incorporating new technologies and processes, aiming to make a safe railroad even safer.
• 🔬 Fink stressed the importance of gathering data to ensure new technologies are fail-safe and superior to current systems.

Corridor ID Program and Passenger Rail

• 📌 Senator Moran inquired about the Corridor ID program, highlighting its benefit to communities in examining passenger rail planning and development, specifically mentioning its impact on extending Amtrak's Heartland Flyer in Kansas.
• ❓ Fink stated he was not familiar with the Corridor ID program but expressed eagerness to learn about it and other FRA initiatives upon confirmation.
• 🤝 Fink affirmed his commitment to working with Amtrak management to improve the national network and provide necessary passenger rail for Kansas.

Commitment to Long-Distance Passenger Rail

• 🚂 Senator Moran reiterated his consistent focus on supporting long-distance passenger rail service across the country, not just in the Northeast Corridor.
• 🚆 Fink expressed his commitment to long-distance passenger rail, sharing personal experiences riding such trains and acknowledging their necessity.

Legal and Ethical Commitments

• ⚖️ Nominee Mr. Gent was asked if he would provide advice requiring clients to follow the law, including court orders and decisions.
• ✅ Mr. Gent confirmed that he would provide such advice without exception.