The openings are for three representatives from electric utilities; one representative from biofuel feedstock growers or providers and biofuel refiners, processors, and distributors; and one representative from the petroleum shipping industry, according to an STB notice in the Federal Register’s Aug. 2 edition (download below). All RETAC vacancies are for three-year terms ending Sept. 30, 2027. Nominations are due Sept. 2, 2024; candidates may nominate themselves. Additionally, it is permissible for federally registered lobbyists to serve on advisory committees like RETAC, according to the STB, as long as they do so in a representative capacity, rather than an individual capacity.
The STB in 2007 established RETAC “as a Federal advisory committee consisting of a balanced cross-section of energy and rail industry stakeholders to provide independent, candid policy advice to the Board and to foster open, effective communication among the affected interests on issues such as rail performance, capacity constraints, infrastructure planning and development, and effective coordination among suppliers, railroads, and users of energy resources,” the STB reported. “RETAC’s membership is balanced and representative of interested and affected parties, consisting of not less than: five representatives from the Class I railroads; three representatives from Class II and III railroads; three representatives from coal producers; five representatives from electric utilities (including at least one rural electric cooperative and one state- or municipally-owned utility); four representatives from biofuel feedstock growers or providers and biofuel refiners, processors, and distributors; two representatives from private-car owners, car lessors or car manufacturers; one representative from the petroleum shipping industry; two representatives from renewable energy sources; and one representative from a labor organization. The Committee may also include up to two at large members with relevant experience but not necessarily affiliated with one of the aforementioned industries or sectors.”
Members are selected by the STB Chair with the concurrence of a majority of the Board. “The Chair is committed to having a committee reflecting diverse communities and viewpoints and strongly encourages the nomination of candidates from diverse backgrounds,” the STB noted.
The Chair also may invite representatives from the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Energy, and Transportation and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to serve on RETAC in advisory capacities as ex officio (non-voting) members. The STB members also serve as ex officio Committee members.
RETAC meets at least twice per year, and its members serve without compensation and without reimbursement of travel expenses, according to the STB.
