GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF NORTH CAROLINA
SESSION 2001
H	1
HOUSE RESOLUTION 1021
     

 
     Sponsors:	Representatives Goodwin, Coates, and Buchanan.	
Referred to:	Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House.	
April 9, 2001

     
A HOUSE RESOLUTION HONORING THE LIFE AND MEMORY OF RAILROAD EMPLOYEES who died while in the performance of their duties.

Whereas, the railroad industry has brought about a significant economic impact on the State of North Carolina, providing the means to trade goods and establish industries and improving the standard of living for many of North Carolina's citizens; and
Whereas, the railroads have allowed people in isolated areas with the means to travel, thus connecting rural and urban areas; and
Whereas, the State of North Carolina has benefited from the hard work and dedication of railroad employees; and
Whereas, the House of Representatives wishes to pay tribute to North Carolina's railroad employees, especially those who have lost their lives in the performance of their duties, by expressing its support of the Railroad Retirement and Survivors Improvement Act that is currently before the 107th Congress; and
Whereas, the Railroad Retirement and Survivors Improvement Act of 2000 received bipartisan support from 391 members of the United States House of Representatives in the 106th Congress; and
Whereas, more than 80 United States Senators signed a letter of support for this legislation in 2000; and
Whereas, the current Railroad Retirement and Survivors Improvement Act of 2001, H.R. 1140, restructures the railroad retirement system for its 748,000 beneficiaries nationwide, including over 11,900 in North Carolina; and
Whereas, railroad management, labor, and retiree organizations have agreed to support the current proposed legislation; and
Whereas, the proposed legislation provides tax relief to freight railroads, Amtrak, and commuter lines; and
Whereas, the proposed legislation provides greater benefits for surviving spouses of rail workers who currently suffer deep cuts in their income upon the death of railroad retirees; and
Whereas, no outside contributions from taxpayers are needed to implement the provisions called for in this legislation; and
Whereas, all provisions will be paid for with monies from the railroad industry; Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:
SECTION 1.  The House of Representatives wishes to honor the memory of all North Carolina's citizens who lost their lives while working with the railroads and supports the Railroad Retirement and Survivors Improvement Act.
SECTION 2.  The Principal Clerk shall transmit a certified copy of this resolution to each member of North Carolina's Congressional delegation.
SECTION 3.  This resolution is effective upon adoption.