House Republicans Push To Expose Amtrak To Rivals

The Wall Street Journal reports:

WASHINGTON—House Republicans moved Wednesday to break up Amtrak's de facto monopoly on intercity passenger rail service in the U.S., saying they believe private companies could run trains more efficiently.

House Transportation Committee Chairman John Mica's proposal would open up Amtrak's Northeast Corridor, a 457-mile section of track between Washington and Boston—to bidding by private companies to build and maintain track and to operate trains.

Mr. Mica, a Florida Republican, said opening up Amtrak's lines to competition would allow more private investment in passenger rail service, leading to faster trains, more-efficient operations and fewer government subsidies.