Why It Matters
Norfolk Southern faces unprecedented regulatory and political scrutiny over its proposed merger with Union Pacific, comprehensive Congressional safety legislation, and the upcoming 2026 surface transportation reauthorization. These are all issues that will reshape railroad operations for years to come.
The merger scrutiny is particularly acute. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and other lawmakers are demanding Surface Transportation Board scrutiny of the deal, while shipper coalitions have warned of reduced competition and higher rates.
Simultaneously, safety legislation like the Railway Safety Act and RAIL Act propose new hazardous material requirements, defect detectors, and crew size standards that could impose significant operational costs. Norfolk Southern must navigate defensive lobbying while engaging on the 2026 surface reauthorization.
By the Numbers
Norfolk Southern reported spending $620,000 on in-house lobbying efforts during Q3 2025. The company has a significant lobbying history spanning over two decades, historically focusing on Railroads (76 instances), Budget/Appropriations (71 instances), and Taxation (62 instances).
The company supplements its in-house team with external partnerships, including Williams & Jensen PLLC, Federal Hill Group LLC, and Thomas Advisors Inc.
The Q3 2025 in-house team includes Phil A. Hancock, who brings direct Capitol Hill experience as a former Legislative Assistant for Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV).
The Agenda
Norfolk Southern is lobbying on railroad industry regulation, with primary focus on the 2026 surface transportation reauthorization and proposed safety legislation. The company’s Q3 2025 efforts target Railroad Operations, Budget/Appropriations, and trade policy.
Specific priorities include the American Tank Car Modernization Act of 2025 (H.R. 2515) and highway-rail grade crossing funding. The company faces defensive needs regarding safety reforms like the Railway Safety Act of 2025 (H.R. 928) and RAIL Act (H.R. 971), plus the Reliable Rail Service Act of 2025 (S. 2104) addressing common carrier obligations.
Between The Lines
Congress is actively reshaping railroad policy amid Norfolk Southern’s proposed merger and escalating safety legislation. The 2026 surface transportation reauthorization is a top priority, with Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) outlining principles.
The proposed UP-NS merger faces significant scrutiny, with Senator Tammy Baldwin demanding regulatory review over service and cost concerns. Meanwhile, comprehensive safety reforms including hazardous material requirements and crew size standards remain under Congressional consideration.
The Bottom Line
Norfolk Southern’s Q3 2025 lobbying reflects a company navigating simultaneous challenges and opportunities. The proposed Union Pacific merger faces Congressional opposition, while aggressive rail safety legislation threatens operational costs. The 2026 surface transportation reauthorization presents opportunities to shape favorable policy.
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