(The Associated Press circulated the following on August 17.)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Association of American Railroads spent nearly $3.4 million in the first half of 2007 to lobby the federal government, according to a disclosure form.
The trade group, whose members include major freight railroads, lobbied on energy, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and rail security, according to the form posted online Tuesday by the Senate’s public records office.
The group also lobbied for a bill to reauthorize Amtrak, which is a member. CSX Corp., Union Pacific Corp. and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corp. are also among the 16 full members of the trade group.
Under a federal law enacted in 1995, lobbyists are required to disclose activities that could influence members of the executive and legislative branches. They must register with Congress within 45 days of being hired or engaging in lobbying.