STB Chairman Patrich Fuchs last month announced that he had designated Vice Chairman Michelle Schultz to lead a series of informal listening sessions with attorneys who practice before the agency. The purpose of the sessions is to “hear individual practitioners’ ideas on ways to streamline the Board’s processes and procedures that affect litigants and parties appearing before the agency.” They are part of Fuchs’ broader initiative to “enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the STB.”
Following a recent round of sessions and “a thorough review of the [more than 100] suggested ideas,” Schultz has provided her recommendations to Chairman Fuchs, including five potential initial action items that the Board should consider, the STB said. According to the Board, the action items are focused on the areas of: (1) ex parte communications and the use of staff liaisons; (2) delegations of authority; (3) discovery; (4) technical conferences; and (5) replies to replies.
“The level of participation went far beyond what I had hoped for,” Schultz said. “I found the conversations to be incredibly helpful, offering insight that could only be provided by those who are regularly engaged with the Board’s procedures, practices and regulations. The practitioners put forth many thoughtful ideas for our consideration which I think will help further Chairman Fuchs’ goal of increasing the Board’s efficiency. I am grateful for the opportunity to assist the Chairman and to work with my colleagues as we continue to streamline our procedures to ensure timely and effective adjudications.”
“The agency’s talented community of practitioners has answered the call, and I am grateful to Vice Chairman Schultz for her swift, diligent review and strong process improvement recommendations,” Fuchs said. “I intend for the Board to consider the recommendations expeditiously and take appropriate action to advance our mission.”
Further Reading:
- STB Provides Update on Outstanding Proceedings
- STB’s New Chair Eyes Market Remedies
- Fuchs Grasps STB Leadership Baton
- STB Appoints Senior Advisors
Patrick Fuchs will be a featured speaker at Railway Age’s Rail Insights conference, to be held virtually on June 17. The conference brings together industry leadership for frank and penetrating dialogue on the key trends and challenges impacting the rail sector.
