Congressman Nick Begich, a member of the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure, has been named vice chair of the House Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials. This position will allow him to advocate for strengthening transportation infrastructure, enhancing energy security, and expanding economic opportunities in Alaska.
“I am honored to be named Vice Chair of the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials and look forward to working with Subcommittee Chairman Webster and my colleagues to modernize and expand our nation’s transportation networks,” said Congressman Begich. “This role presents a tremendous opportunity to advance critical infrastructure projects that will strengthen Alaska’s economy, improve supply chain efficiency, and support energy development.”
A major priority for Begich is advancing the state’s long-held goal of connecting Alaska to the Lower 48 via a railroad. Alaska remains unconnected to the rest of the North American rail network, a gap that limits economic growth and trade opportunities.
“Alaska has immense resource potential, but we must have the infrastructure to move goods and energy efficiently. Expanding our rail and pipeline networks will lower costs, create jobs, and strengthen our state’s position in the global economy,” Begich added.
The Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials has jurisdiction over the Surface Transportation Board (STB), Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), Amtrak, and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). It plays a key oversight role in ensuring the economic and safety regulation of railroads, pipelines, and hazardous materials transportation, industries that are critical to Alaska’s economy.