Regulators turn down requests for summary denial of UP-NS merger
The Surface Transportation Board rejected opponents’ attempts to quickly halt the proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger. The post Regulators turn down requests for summary denial of UP-NS merger appeared first on FreightWaves .
The Surface Transportation Board has rejected attempts by BNSF Railway, CSX, and a coalition of shipper associations to halt the Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern merger. The board denied three motions on Aug. 6, stating additional evidence and argument were needed for its decision-making. The motions questioned whether UP and NS met the prima facie standard, which requires the merger to be in the public interest.
The board noted the motions raised important questions, but that additional evidence would aid their decision. UP and NS argued the merger would increase competition and bring benefits to other railroads. The board said it would be aided by a more complete record to evaluate the application. The decision does not reflect any determination of the merger's merits.
Union Pacific welcomed the decision, stating their opponents' challenges were based on fear of competition, not facts. BNSF, CSX, and the shipper coalition expressed disappointment but acknowledged the board recognized important questions.
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