ACD Press Release

ACD Encourages STB to Oppose UP-NS Rail Merger Proposal, Uphold High Standards of Merger Review Rules

Arlington, VA – Today, Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) President and CEO Eric R. Byer released the following statement after Union Pacific (UP) and Norfolk Southern (NS) formally submitted its application to the Surface Transportation Board (STB) for review of its merger proposal:

“Following the failures of past rail mergers, the STB rightfully established a higher bar of standards that merger proposals must now meet. Businesses remain unconvinced this mega-merger will resolve the challenges shippers are already facing, including capacity constraints, high rates, and ongoing service issues. The burden of proof will now be on the freight rail companies to demonstrate how this proposal will be in the public’s interest through enhanced efficiencies and how reducing the number of rail lines will enhance – not just preserve – competition for shippers. As the STB prepares to consider the proposal, ACD encourages the board to conduct a rigorous and comprehensive evaluation of the proposal’s merits and reject this merger. ACD strongly opposes this merger proposal as it will expand monopolistic control of freight rail at the expense of America’s critical chemical supply chain.”

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The Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) partners with our more than 400 chemical distribution industry members to provide the education, connection, standards, and advocacy they need to responsibly move the essential products our world depends on. As leaders in the $27B+ chemical distribution industry, ACD member companies commit to the highest standards in quality, safety, sustainability, and performance through ACD Responsible Distribution^TM. For more information, visit www.acd-chem.com.