§22701 Definitions

Summary

Defines key words used to judge rail projects and who runs state rail plans. "Private benefit" means a gain to a person or private company (not Amtrak) that makes them better off economically or more competitive, like better assets, lower costs, or improved service. "Public benefit" means a gain for the public (including Amtrak) such as easier movement of people or goods, environmental protection, less traffic, economic growth, cleaner air or land use, energy savings, safer communities, lower public costs from better transportation or other community improvements. Whether a benefit is private or public is decided for each project by agreement between the parties, and the Secretary can ask states and rail carriers for help defining these terms. "State" means any of the 50 States and the District of Columbia. "State rail transportation authority" means the state agency or official who, under the governor or state law, prepares, keeps, coordinates, and runs the State rail plan.