The issue of rail reform must get beyond simplistic rhetoric. Instead, the real issue is about an inherently unequal business relationship, who will referee the relationship, and by what standards. I firmly believe the railroads are at a critical juncture. If they insist on maintaining the current regulatory system with protected franchises, the economy will pass them by.
Railroads fear the changes sought by their main customers.
Instead, they should work with their customers to embrace change. When the Department of Transportation released proposed new regulations for truckers hours of service, carriers and shippers alike were horrified. The rules impact on the industry and, indeed, the U.S. economy would have been devastating. Battle lines were drawn. Perhaps some in the conflict let their emotions rule their brains.