H.R. 9088 — Introduced in House

I 119th CONGRESS 2d Session H. R. 9088 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES June 2, 2026Mr. Begich introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure A BILL To direct the Secretary of Transportation to conduct a feasibility study on the establishment of a rail route linking Alaska to the North American continental rail network, and for other purposes. 1. Short title This Act may be cited as the Polar Express Act of 2026. 2. Polar express feasibility study (a) In general Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall initiate a feasibility study on the establishment of a rail route linking the State of Alaska to the North American rail network in the continental United States, to be known as the Polar Express. (b) Scope The Secretary shall determine the scope, contents, and methodology of the feasibility study conducted under this section, and may consult with such Federal agencies, State, Tribal, and local governments, foreign governments, and other stakeholders as the Secretary determines appropriate. (c) Report Not later than 2 years after the date on which the feasibility study is initiated under subsection (a), the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report containing the results of the feasibility study and any recommendations of the Secretary. (d) Rule of construction Nothing in this Act shall be construed— (1) to authorize the construction of the rail route described in subsection (a); or (2) to commit Federal funds for the construction of such rail route.