LINCOLN- The Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission is a body that oversees rail services and works to improve passenger rail services in the midwest. Nebraska left the commission nearly ten years ago, but LB44 would have Nebraska reenter that coalition. The current members of the commission are Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota and Wisconsin.

The bill's sponsor, Senator George Dungan, pointed out that Nebraska has led the rail industry for over 100 years and supports railways. Dungan said, "It’s important for Nebraska to have a voice in current and future passenger development that will bring a significant transportation and economic benefit to our state.” The bill did not receive any in-person testimony at its Monday hearing, but there were 6 letters of opposition.

Nebraska left the commission in 2015 citing that the benefits of the committee do not outweigh the expenditure of tax dollars on dues. Iowa has also indicated that it would also rejoin the commission. This is partially due to a future rail line between Nebraska and Chicago. Supporters of the bill pointed out that communication is key in the train world.

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