Many Are Not Aware Of How Many Federal Agencies There Are

Many Are Not Aware Of Just How Many Federal Agencies There Are And The

Many are not aware of just how many federal agencies there are and the scope of their functions. As President Trump recently stated in numerous campaign speeches, some things are going to have to be cut. You are responsible for saving your agency. You will deliver a 2-minute speech to President Trump (me!) and his advisors (the rest of the class) pleading your case for continued funding for your agency. Along with your speech, you are responsible for creating an executive summary which should include the following listed below: Some things to include in your executive summary

- When it was founded and why? What department is above it?

- How it developed over the years – the highs and lows

- Why is it still important now?

- How much funding has it received in the past fiscal year?

- How many employees does it have?

- Who is in charge of this department or agency?

Paper For Above instruction

Executive Summary of Amtrak

Amtrak, officially known as the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, was founded on May 1, 1971, primarily to assume the responsibility for intercity passenger rail service in the United States. The creation of Amtrak was driven by the declining state of private passenger railroads, many of which were facing financial difficulties due to increased competition from automobiles and air travel. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is the overseeing federal department above Amtrak, as it is considered a federal corporation created by Congress to operate passenger rail services.

Throughout its history, Amtrak has experienced significant highs and lows. In its early years, the organization faced substantial financial losses and criticism for its inefficient operations, prompting repeated efforts for reform and increased funding. However, Amtrak also achieved notable successes, including improving service quality and expanding routes. The passage of the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 marked a pivotal moment, providing stable federal funding and reinvesting in infrastructure improvements. Despite recurring financial challenges, Amtrak remains vital for providing transportation alternatives, reducing traffic congestion, and connecting underserved regions across the nation. Its importance has grown in recent years with increased emphasis on sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation.

In the most recent fiscal year, Amtrak received approximately $2 billion in federal funding, which is part of its ongoing financial support from Congress. This funding is crucial for maintaining and expanding services, modernizing infrastructure, and ensuring safety standards. As of now, Amtrak employs approximately 20,000 workers, including train crews, maintenance staff, administrative personnel, and customer service representatives. The organization is led by the President and CEO of Amtrak, currently Stephen J. Gardner, who oversees all operational and strategic aspects of the corporation.

Amtrak’s continued existence and development are essential for addressing transportation needs in the United States, particularly for corridors where high-speed rail is feasible and for providing reliable mobility options for millions of passengers annually. Its role aligns with broader national policies promoting sustainable transit solutions and economic development across various regions. Without sustained federal support and strategic development, Amtrak risks further decline, which would impact millions of Americans and the nation’s transportation infrastructure.

References

- Amtrak. (2023). About Amtrak. https://www.amtrak.com/about-us

- U.S. Department of Transportation. (2023). Amtrak Fact Sheet. https://www.transportation.gov

- Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008. (2008). Public Law No. 110-432.

- National Transportation Database. (2023). Amtrak Employee Count. https://ntl.bts.gov

- Congressional Budget Office. (2022). Federal Funding for Amtrak. https://www.cbo.gov

- Office of Management and Budget. (2023). Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Request: Amtrak. https://www.whitehouse.gov

- US Government Accountability Office. (2022). Amtrak Financial Performance. https://www.gao.gov

- American Public Transportation Association. (2022). Rail Transit Data. https://www.apta.com

- Congressional Research Service. (2021). Amtrak: Background and Issues for Congress. https://crsreports.congress.gov

- National Association of Railroad Passengers. (2023). Advocating for Passenger Rail. https://narp.org