Railroads Stuck Filling Out Index Forms Forever
Published Date: 10/6/2026
Notice
Summary
The Surface Transportation Board wants to keep using its Classification Index Survey Form, which helps track railroad info. This affects railroad companies that don’t file the big annual report, and they’ll spend about 24 hours a year filling it out. Comments on this plan are open until December 7, 2026, with no changes or extra costs planned.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Small Railroads' Annual Paperwork Burden
If you run a railroad company that is not required to file the Annual Report (Form R-1), you may need to submit a Classification Index Survey Form when your adjusted revenues indicate a classification change. The Board estimates one respondent per year (based on 2023–2025 filings) and an estimated 24 hours per response annually; the form may be submitted electronically and the Board reports no additional non-hour costs.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-20455, 60-Day Notice of Intent To Seek Extension of Approval: Petitions for Declaratory Order and Petitions for Relief Not Otherwise Specified
The Surface Transportation Board wants to keep collecting info from folks like shippers, railroads, and communities who ask for official decisions to clear up disputes. They’re asking for your thoughts by December 7, 2026, to make sure the process stays smooth and useful. This won’t cost extra money but helps keep things clear and fair for everyone involved.
Next: 2026-20457, Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request
The Department of Agriculture is asking for public feedback on its Farm Loan Program info collection, which helps family farmers get loans for land, equipment, and farming needs. They want to make sure the paperwork is useful, clear, and not too much of a hassle. Comments are open until November 5, 2026, so farmers and others can weigh in before any changes happen.