According to the company’s website press release on November 29, 2022, the American Chemistry Council (ACC) supports President Biden’s call for Congress to pass legislation to implement the Tentative Agreement between union leadership and railroads to avoid a crippling shutdown of the nation’s freight rail system.
“We understand this is a challenging situation and we commend President Biden for directly engaging with Congress to find a solution,” said Chris Jahn, ACC’s president and CEO.
“Chemical manufacturers are less than a week away from being unable to transport chemicals critical to everyday life as railroads start to restrict service in advance of the strike deadline. Many of these chemical shipments are needed to protect public health and safety, including water treatment and to support every segment of the economy – from farms to factories.” Chris Jahn, ACC President and CEO
U.S. chemical manufacturers are one of largest users of freight rail – shipping more than 33,000 carloads per week worth $2.8 billion. Many chemical facilities would be forced to curtail production or shut down within the first week of a rail service embargo.
“Time is running short, and the stakes are too high,” said Jahn. “We urge Congress to prevent a strike from triggering an economic catastrophe by quickly passing legislation based on the terms that labor leaders and railroads agreed to in September.”
American Chemistry Council
The American Chemistry Council (ACC) represents the leading companies engaged in the multibillion-dollar business of chemistry. ACC members apply the science of chemistry to make innovative products, technologies and services that make people's lives better, healthier and safer. ACC is committed to improved environmental, health, safety and security performance through Responsible Care®; common sense advocacy addressing major public policy issues; and health and environmental research and product testing. ACC members and chemistry companies are among the largest investors in research and development, and are advancing products, processes and technologies to address climate change, enhance air and water quality, and progress toward a more sustainable, circular economy.
