The ASLRRA Legislative Policy Committee (LPC) is the association’s primary member forum for developing legislative strategy and driving advocacy on Capitol Hill. Representing short line and regional railroads across the country, the LPC helps set ASLRRA’s congressional agenda on issues like the 45G short line tax credit, rail safety, and rail grant funding.
By bringing together railroad executives, government affairs professionals, and industry partners, the LPC ensures the short line industry speaks with a strong, coordinated, and bipartisan voice in Washington, D.C.
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...including modernizing the Section 45G tax credit for track maintenance and improvement.
...to secure broad, bipartisan support for key bills and to position short line priorities in major legislative vehicles such as tax and surface transportation policy and funding packages.
...on rail safety, rail transportation grants, and economic regulation.
LPC work spans a wide range of topics, including:
The LPC is made up of engaged ASLRRA member representatives — typically senior executives or government affairs leads from short line and regional railroads, along with select associate members who are deeply involved in public policy.
ASLRRA LPC Leadership:
Chair
Laura McNichol, Watco
Vice Chair
Jeff Van Schaick, Jaguar Transport Holdings
These leaders work closely with ASLRRA’s Government Relations team and other committee members to coordinate priorities, share intelligence from the field, and keep advocacy efforts focused and effective.
The LPC is not just an advisory group — it plays a formal role in shaping ASLRRA’s direction:
By serving on the LPC, members help set the Association’s advocacy strategy and influence broader organizational decisions.
LPC members can expect to (click on the + for more information):
...often held in conjunction with the ASLRRA Annual Conference and other key events.
...focused on high-priority issues like tax, safety, and infrastructure.
...to prepare for legislative pushes, respond to emerging issues, and coordinate outreach to Members of Congress.
...(e.g., Safety & Training, Mechanical, Legal) when policy issues cross functional lines.
LPC involvement is hands-on, practical, and results-oriented—members help shape messaging, share on-the-ground impact stories, and connect directly with policymakers.
The Legislative Policy Committee is open to ASLRRA members who are ready to be actively engaged in advocacy. LPC participation requires an additional dues commitment, reflecting the committee’s intensive work and specialized role in the association’s structure.
Members who join the LPC typically:
If you are interested in joining the Legislative Policy Committee or learning more about its work, contact ASLRRA Staff Liaison Nicole Brewin, Vice President, Congressional Affairs.
Becoming part of the Legislative Policy Committee is one of the most direct ways to ensure your railroad’s voice — and the short line industry’s voice — is heard in Washington.
