Key provisions of H.R. 1 include:

• Permanent restoration of an interest deductibility standard that supports growth
• Full expensing for capital equipment purchases
• Immediate expensing for research and development costs

Their permanent restoration will encourage innovation, drive investment, and create new jobs nationwide. 

“The passage of H.R. 1 represents a significant commitment to American manufacturing, and specifically offers vital support to the railway supply industry,” said Railway Supply Institute President Jim Riley. “In an increasingly competitive global economy, this bill provides our manufacturers–from the smallest workshops to the largest enterprises that build and maintain our nation’s rail system–with tax tools that can help them innovate, expand, and compete. It is a signal that Congress is dedicated to fostering a strong manufacturing sector that includes the critical components of our rail infrastructure.”

The post Newly Passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act Supports American Manufacturing and Economic Growth for the Rail Sector appeared first on RSI.

In his testimony, Wabtec Corporation Executive Vice President and CTO Eric Gebhardt emphasized how advanced technologies developed by Wabtec and RSI members are transforming rail safety, efficiency, and sustainability. “Wabtec’s and other RSI members’ commitment to research and development ensures that the rail industry continues to evolve to meet the needs of modern transportation,” Gebhardt said. He added, “Continued progress requires continued partnership. Wabtec and RSI look forward to working with Congress and the Administration to ensure America’s rail network remains the safest and most efficient in the world.”  

Since January, the House Transportation & Infrastructure (T&I) Committee has conducted hearings to examine federal programs that support the freight and passenger rail industry ahead of the September 30, 2026, expiration of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). “RSI is grateful to the Subcommittee for the opportunity for an RSI member company to testify and highlight the important role our members play in strengthening the nation’s rail network,” said RSI President Jim Riley. “Wabtec Corporation embodies the innovative spirit of the rail supply industry and we’re grateful to Eric and the entire Wabtec team for serving as a strong representative for the entire industry.”

“On behalf of RSI’s Board of Directors, I’d like to thank and commend Wabtec for representing the entire rail supply industry before the House T&I Committee’s Railroads, Pipelines, & Hazardous Materials Subcommittee,” said Robert Oesch, Vice President of North American Commercial at Amsted Rail and Chair of the RSI Board of Directors. “Today’s hearing highlights RSI’s ability to bring forward real-world expertise from across our industry. RSI members’ collective expertise, and close working relationships with both public and private stakeholders allow us to play a central role in shaping policies that will define the future of rail.”

Today’s hearing occurs just under one month before RSI members are set to showcase the industry’s latest innovations at Innovation in Rail, RSI’s rail supplier technology event taking place on Capitol Hill. The annual event is designed to focus on rail technology, the regulatory environment, and the economic contributions made by the rail supply industry. Learn more and RSVP to the event here.  

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Earlier this year, I was honored to step into the role of president for RSI, filling “big shoes” being preceded by Patty Long. The vision she and the board have laid out has significantly strengthened RSI. It’s clear I’ve been set up for success. It’s my intention to build upon the solid foundation she established. I am deeply grateful for the warm welcome extended to me by the members, board, and staff of RSI.

With nearly 25 years of experience in trade associations, including experience within the transportation sector, I bring a wealth of knowledge and familiarity to RSI, and I look forward to showing you that as my time in this role goes on. My professional journey has been marked by a profound passion for railways, having worked on rail issues across various industries. Personally speaking, I’ve been a dedicated commuter rail rider for over two decades. My lifelong interest and commitment to the rail industry drives my determination to make a meaningful impact for RSI.

Our association has a rich history we can be proud of, dating back to 1908 when we were established as the Railway Business Association. In our more than a century of existence, we’ve experienced much evolution. Our historical journey underscores the enduring significance and impact of RSI in the railway supply industry.

If you’re curious about our impact, let me point to the data. RSI represents an industry that encompasses over 1.6 million railcars, drawn by more than 28,000 locomotives on 140,000 miles of rail. Our members build and maintain 70% of freight rail cars and 95% of tank cars operating on the North American railway system. This makes RSI the largest trade association in the railway supply industry, representing the full supply chain — from the smallest parts manufacturer to the largest railcar builders and lessors.

I was immediately struck by the impressive advocacy work and high regard in which RSI is held by congressional and administration officials. With nearly 200 members, 725 locations, and representation in 277 congressional districts, we carry significant weight in the legislative arena — something that will serve us well as we face an increasingly complex and rapidly changing regulatory landscape.

Transportation is one of the most bipartisan areas in Congress, and we have the potential to accomplish a great deal. Our members are deeply connected and involved with elected officials; their ability to advocate for themselves is a testament to their dedication. It is through these relationships with elected officials and their effective lobbying efforts that we can achieve significant progress. 

Beyond maintaining our high standards for advocacy work, my primary objectives as president are threefold:

1. Continue growing RSI’s membership.
2. Enhance its recognition among the administration, Congress, media, and the association community.
3. Establish RSI as the foremost source of information about the railway supply industry.

The Board of Directors, in collaboration with myself and staff, will develop a new three-year strategic plan from 2026-2028, which is an opportune time to outline how we can achieve the goals I’ve mentioned.

Listening to our members will be at the core of this approach. The most successful associations are those that truly understand the needs of the individuals and companies they serve. I am committed to hearing from you and adding your insights into our strategic plan. This will involve engaging with members through our various volunteer committees, understanding the challenges they face with passenger and freight rail, and addressing concerns related to tax, trade, and regulatory matters, among other key topics.

I am thrilled to lead RSI at this pivotal moment. Together, we will continue to advocate for our industry, foster innovation, and build strong relationships across the railway ecosystem. I look forward to working with all of you to achieve our shared goals and make RSI the foremost authority in the railway supply industry.

The post Laying Down the Tracks for Success appeared first on RSI.

The Passenger Rail Advisory Committee (PRAC), formed in the fall of 2024 under the Surface Transportation Board (STB), is an exciting development for the future of passenger rail in the United States. The committee, comprised of 21 individuals representing the rail industry across the country, is filled with enthusiasm and a shared commitment to make meaningful changes in the industry. We are eager to work together and use our collective expertise to drive progress.

Early this year, the committee identified its top five priorities: liability, on-time performance, collaboration between passenger and freight rail, Amtrak’s role, and technology as it relates to current uses and opportunities.

These priorities are crucial for the advancement of passenger rail and are being tackled by four dedicated subcommittees, with initial considerations outlined below:

1. Joint Operations: This group is exploring how to expand passenger rail in collaboration with freight operations. This involves identifying mutually beneficial opportunities and the potential to convert unused freight assets into passenger rail assets.
2. Expansion: This group is focused on breaking down the siloed approach to passenger rail, supporting the industrial base for passenger rail in the U.S., and considering the possibility of small-scale startup opportunities.
3. Current State: This group will explore ways to homogenize passenger rail, similar to freight rail, to improve system quality and passenger experience. Flexibility and adaptability will be key to enhancing service.  
4. Liability: This group is addressing the costs of insurance, identifying ways to lower liability caps, and making insurance more affordable to encourage freight rail carriers to host passenger services.

Looking outward, a recent report from Amtrak’s Office of Inspector General highlights the rail line’s responsiveness to car builders’ concerns, though more resources are needed to keep program timelines on track. Initiatives like the Department of Transportation’s Corridor ID program, which promotes planning for new passenger rail corridors, are crucial as well. Funding for future corridor research and development can lay the groundwork for new services, supporting suppliers through the procurement of new railcars.

Federal funding in this space remains a critical need. Reliable, long-term funding sources, such as the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail (FSP) Grant Program, support the replacement and refurbishment of rolling stock.

In speaking with Husein Cumber, fellow committee member and chief strategy officer of Florida East Coast Industries, on the current state and opportunities, he shared the following:

“President Trump has discussed the lack of first-class infrastructure in the U.S. and the need for private sector investment in the industry. I do not believe that these positions have changed. However, this administration will not want to make incremental investments in projects. If a project cannot clearly show the full funding plan, then it will not be competitive with discretionary grant programs. Incremental funding has been the biggest challenge since it does not force project sponsors to engage all funding stakeholders on day one, and the project cost continues to increase as the funding timeline gets elongated. We need the first true high-speed rail project to be completed and put into operation, and then the industry will have a chance to mature.”

While the path ahead will come with challenges, the PRAC is poised to make significant strides in the passenger rail industry. Our collective enthusiasm and dedication to addressing these key issues promise a bright future for passenger rail. Together, we are committed to creating a more efficient, collaborative, and innovative rail system that benefits all stakeholders.

The post Advancing Passenger Rail: Early Insights From the PRAC appeared first on RSI.

RSI President Patty Long released the following statement in support of the legislation: 

“The Freight RAILCAR Act of 2025 will encourage investment in a more sustainable freight railcar fleet and bolster an industry vital to the U.S. economy. The RSI appreciates Representatives LaHood and Schneider for their leadership and urges Congress to pass this important legislation.” 

The post Railway Supply Institute Statement in Support of the Freight RAILCAR Act of 2025   appeared first on RSI.

The finalized rule implements key provisions of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, safeguarding the industry from the influx of state-subsidized rail components from countries of concern and bolstering the integrity of rail freight equipment manufacturing in North America. 

“RSI applauds the FRA for finalizing this vital regulation, which not only enhances safety and sustainability across the rail industry but also strengthens the domestic railcar manufacturing sector,” RSI President Patty Long said. “This rule underscores the commitment of Congress and the FRA to protect the U.S. rail supply chain, foster innovation, and prioritize national security.” 

The FRA’s approach reflects a balanced commitment to advancing safety and economic priorities while addressing the practical needs of railcar manufacturers. RSI remains a steadfast partner to the FRA in advancing these goals. 

The post Railway Supply Institute Applauds Finalization of Federal Railroad Administration’s Freight Car Safety Standards Rule  appeared first on RSI.

Long joined RSI as the president in 2021 shortly after the association entered into a new management model as a client of Smithbucklin, based in Washington, DC. Since then, Long and the Smithbucklin team have supported RSI in expanding its staff resources, enhancing its focus on advocacy, and more effectively supporting a wide range of technical committees to deliver on its mission to proactively advance safety, innovation, technology and sustainability within the rail industry.

Under Long’s leadership, the association initiated a new passenger rail working group creating a much-need forum to address the unique challenges for rail suppliers in the transit and passenger space. As a testament to that leadership, Long was appointed in 2023 as a member of the Surface Transportation Board’s newly formed Passenger Rail Advisory Committee (PRAC).

“By all measures, RSI has thrived during Patty’s tenure as president,” said RSI Board of Directors Chair Jeff Lytle, President of CIT Rail. “RSI is positioned for great potential as a result of Patty’s leadership. While we are sorry to see her leave, we are enormously happy for her. We appreciate Patty’s dedication, leadership and commitment to RSI and look forward to working with her throughout the remainder of her time with us. ”

The RSI Board of Directors and Smithbucklin are launching a search for a permanent replacement upon Long’s retirement. During the upcoming transition, RSI is committed to sustaining RSI’s current momentum.

Long’s career of service in association management spans more than 25 years. Before joining RSI, Long served as interim CEO and Chief Operating Officer for Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS). Earlier in her career, Long worked as the Director of Communications with the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) and spent 18 years at the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), rising to Vice President, Policy Research and Member Communications. Patty also taught ethics for over a decade as an adjunct professor at Georgetown University’s School of Continuing Studies. 

The post Railway Supply Institute Announces Leadership Update appeared first on RSI.

I recently had the privilege of attending InnoTrans in Berlin, the world’s largest trade fair for transport technology, for a second time. As a leading voice of the North American rail supply industry with a growing presence in the passenger space, RSI’s participation at this global event was more important than ever.

From the moment you step into the massive exhibition halls, it’s clear that InnoTrans is not your average trade show. There are 27 mega interconnected halls, organized by type of product or technology. Using the phrase “booth” doesn’t do this show justice, either. Exhibitors have massive, two-story spaces that are thoughtfully designed and planned out for meetings, hands-on technology demonstrations and entertainment. Plus, there’s outdoor space for hundreds of power units, trams and railcars. Over 170,000 attendees from 133 countries were present this year — the scale, scope, and sheer energy of InnoTrans is truly remarkable.

Beyond the stage, I was able to have productive meetings with several of our member companies, including Siemens, Alstom, and our newest member, Hitachi. These conversations helped deepen our understanding of the international rail market and identify ways we can better support our members’ global growth ambitions.

One of the most striking things about InnoTrans is the sheer volume of new technologies and innovations on display. From green energy solutions to cutting-edge signaling systems, the pace of change in the rail industry is astounding. One example that stood out to me was green technology on display from Wabtec. They’re developing what’s essentially “bridge technology” — helping connect our current infrastructure and practices to where we want to take the future of rail when it comes to environmentally conscious practices. These solutions will allow our industry to gradually transition to more sustainable, efficient systems without having to scrap existing investments. This type of forward-thinking, collaborative approach is exactly what the industry needs to drive meaningful progress.

The fact that everyone is at InnoTrans, whether exhibiting or attending, creates an incredibly energizing atmosphere. As you walk the halls, it’s not uncommon to run into people you’ve been hoping to connect with — whether it’s from partner organizations, industry coalitions, or CEOs of our member companies. It’s a whirlwind of activity, with meetings and receptions happening from early morning to late at night. The opportunity for interaction is unparalleled, allowing you to make new connections and reconnect with those you’ve worked with in the past.

As we look ahead, RSI is committed to building on this momentum here in the states. We recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Railway Engineering Maintenance Suppliers Association (REMSA) and Railway Systems Suppliers, Inc. (RSSI) to host Railway Interchange every year, rather than a combined show followed by a standalone show. This will allow us to bring the same spirit of global collaboration and innovation to our home market, providing even more value to this community and our industry at large.

There’s no doubt that events like InnoTrans are invaluable for keeping a pulse on the industry and making connections that drive our business forward. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to represent RSI on the global stage, and I look forward to sharing more insights and opportunities with our members in the months ahead. The rail supply industry is truly a global enterprise, and RSI is committed to ensuring our members are positioned for success, no matter where their business takes them.

The post Greetings From Berlin: An Optimistic Outlook on Rail at InnoTrans 2024 appeared first on RSI.

By RSI President Patty Long

Dick Kloster’s recent article in Progressive Railroading magazine (“If I Were King of the Rail-car Fleet,” July 2024, p.14) raised a number of key issues confronting the industry. Dick is correct that if the current AAR rule governing the car hire default rate is not changed, the result will be a severe box-car shortage and/or a TTX-dominated box-car market. That is why the Railway Supply Institute has petitioned the STB to consider requiring changes to the default rate rule. Our petition specifically invites AAR to negotiate with RSI on changes to the rule that would level the playing field for companies desiring to support adequate car supply by investing in rail cars, including box cars. To date, AAR has not accepted that invitation.

However, we believe that Dick is misguided in calling in the elimination of per-diem leasing. The reality is that elimination of per-diem leasing would upend the market for leasing a variety of pooled assets including intermodal well cars and multilevel auto carriers, to say nothing of box cars. Moreover, if done on a level playing field, per diem leasing is an incredibly useful structure to align the interests of shippers, railroads and car owners with respect to payment made for value received.

We look forward to the STB’s pending decision on our petition and hope it will grant our request to consider changes to the default rate rule. Such a decision is in the best interest of shippers, short lines, and car owners and would allow the industry to take a big step forward in alleviate concerns about future rail-car supply.

The post Don’t Eliminate Per-Diem Leasing, Level the Playing Field appeared first on RSI.

WASHINGTON, DC, November 18, 2021 ­— The Railway Supply Institute (RSI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Patty Long, an experienced and skilled association leader, as its president. RSI is the only broadly representative trade association for railway suppliers, comprised of over 160 companies of all sizes which support North American freight and passenger railroads and employ more than 125,000 people.

Long brings over 25 years of executive experience in trade associations, most recently serving the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) as interim CEO and Chief Operating Officer with oversight of industry relations, member engagement, HR, government and regulatory affairs, and sustainability. Earlier in her career, Long spent 18 years at the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), rising to Vice President, Policy Research and Member Communications, and she previously served as the Director of Communications for the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA).

“This is an exciting time for RSI and our member companies,” said Jack Isselmann, RSI Board Chair and SVP of External Affairs & Communications for The Greenbrier Companies. “Patty’s expertise, energy, and experience, combined with the recent enactment of the Infrastructure and Investment and Jobs Act, brings renewed vitality to RSI’s mission to serve the rail supply industry. In the months to come, expect RSI to develop new programs, enhance member value, and organize a successful in-person RSI Expo and Education Conference next fall, as it capitalizes on the many other opportunities before us in 2022.”

Long’s appointment was the result of a rigorous external search process. After fully vetting over a dozen highly-qualified candidates through a four-month external search process, the RSI Board of Directors unanimously selected Patty to lead the organization.

“I am excited to be joining an industry so vital to the U.S. economy and this nation’s infrastructure,” said Long. “I look forward to working with the members of RSI to grow our industry and continue to sustainably drive America forward.”

Long assumes her role effective November 29th. She and her family reside in the greater D.C. area and she will operate out of RSI’s Washington, D.C. headquarters.

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