The bill establishes an intercity passenger rail service program in Kansas, amending K.S.A. 75-5089 to authorize the secretary of transportation to implement this program. The secretary is empowered to enter into agreements with Amtrak and other rail operators to develop passenger rail services, provide assistance to local jurisdictions for station development, and offer loans or grants for various rail-related improvements. The bill also creates a passenger rail service revolving fund, from which the secretary can make loans or grants to support the restoration and construction of rail infrastructure, as well as the operation of passenger rail services.

Additionally, the bill mandates annual transfers of $5,000,000 from specified state funds to the passenger rail service revolving fund, starting July 1, 2026, through July 1, 2029. It includes provisions for the secretary to report on the development and operation of the passenger rail service program and ensures that existing railroad assistance agreements remain unaffected. The existing section of K.S.A. 75-5089 is repealed, and the new provisions will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 75-5089