The Transportation Modernization Act could become law as early as today
By Kate Ayers
Staff Writer
Farms.com
Bill C-49, also known as the Transportation Modernization Act, was passed yesterday after both the House of Commons and Senate voted in its favour.
The bill awaits Royal Assent and could become law as early as today, a Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) release said yesterday.
“Grain farmers have been waiting years for a legislative fix to Canada’s rail transportation system,” Jeff Nielsen, GGC president, said in the release.
“Bill C-49 will improve the long-term competitiveness of the grain supply chain and it is welcome news that these measures will become law.”
The bill will also increase competition and accountability in rail transportation, the release said.
Highlights of the bill include reciprocal penalties, long haul interswitching, improved data transparency, and maximum revenue entitlement, all of which should benefit Western Canadian producers.
“Grain farmers are pleased to thank Minister Marc Garneau for introducing a strong bill and all parliamentarians for supporting the amendments recommended by grain farmers,” Art Enns, GGC vice-president, said in the release.
“We look forward to using these tools during the next crop year and in the future to help prevent another grain backlog across the Prairies.”
Producers in Western Canada have faced transportation backlogs for months now, with many ripple effects.
GGC will continue to collaborate with the government and the Canadian Transportation Agency to ensure the amended bill is implemented in a way that delivers meaningful change for grain shippers, the release said.
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