HR 188 would open Amtrak board meetings to the public
Placed on the calendarH.R. 188Latest action
Sponsor: Troy E. Nehls · Representative · TX
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Official title: Amtrak Transparency and Accountability for Passengers and Taxpayers Act
119th Congress
Topics: Jobs & the economy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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HR 188 would require Amtrak's board to meet publicly by default, with limited exceptions for contracts and personnel matters.
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What does this do?
HR 188 would require Amtrak's Board of Directors to hold its meetings openly to the public, bringing Amtrak under rules similar to those that govern most federal agencies under the Government in the Sunshine Act. Closed sessions would still be permitted for contract negotiations, union talks, and discussions about specific employees. Amtrak would also be required to publicize meeting schedules and keep records.
Who does it affect?
Amtrak passengers and taxpayers who fund Amtrak through federal dollars would gain greater visibility into how the board makes decisions. Amtrak as an organization and its employees involved in contract or personnel matters are also directly affected.
Why does it matter?
Bringing Amtrak under open-meeting rules would give the public and taxpayers a clearer view of leadership decisions at a federally funded organization. Amtrak would face new administrative requirements to announce meetings and maintain records, while retaining the ability to close sessions in defined circumstances.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJan 3, 2025
- House committee
- House voteYou are here · Jun 6, 2025
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: it was placed on the , and the official record shows no floor action on it since. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 113.