Listening sessions result in dozens of ideas for streamlining the STB

The Surface Transportation Board has gathered more than 100 ideas from listening sessions held to solicit suggestions for streamlining board processes and procedures, STB Chairman Patrick Fuchs announced yesterday.

STB Vice Chair Michelle Schultz recently held informal sessions as part of Fuchs' broader plan to improve the STB's efficiency and effectiveness. Schultz met with dozes of attorneys who regularly practice before the agency, gathering the ideas for process improvements, according to an STB press release.

Session participation exceeded her expectations, Schultz said. After reviewing the suggestions, she provided her own recommendations to Fuchs, including five potential initial actions that the board should consider. Those action items focus on the areas of ex parte communications and the use of staff liaisons; delegations of authority; discovery; technical conferences; and replies to reply filings.

"I intend for the board to consider the recommendations expeditiously and take appropriate action to advance our mission," said Fuchs.