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Bipartisan Legislation Introduced by Ohio State Reps. Skindell and Ghanbari to Rejoin Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Compact; Bill Referred to Committee

The Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission (MIPRC) has been instrumental since its establishment in 2000 in uniting state leaders acro

The Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission (MIPRC) has been instrumental since its establishment in 2000 in uniting state leaders acro

May 1, 2024

John Esterly

Columbus, OH – All Aboard Ohio is pleased to announce the bipartisan reintroduction of Ohio into the Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Compact (MIPRC) through legislation introduced by State Representatives Michael J. Skindell (D-Lakewood) and Haraz N. Ghanbari (R-Perrysburg). Known as House Bill 488, the bill emphasizes the critical role of interstate passenger rail in fostering connectivity and economic growth across the region.


Rep. Skindell, in a statement on his legislature page, underscored the significance of Ohio’s previous membership in MIPRC from 2002 to 2013, stating, “Rejoining this commission is essential to promoting the growth and development of interstate passenger rail access in Ohio and supporting communication among other Midwestern states. It will give Ohio a seat at the table.”


All Aboard Ohio, with its commitment to advancing comprehensive transportation solutions, recognizes the importance of Ohio’s involvement in MIPRC in aligning with the organization’s mission. By advocating for sustainable and accessible transportation options, All Aboard Ohio aims to enhance mobility, spur economic development, and improve the quality of life for residents across the state.


The Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission (MIPRC) has been instrumental since its establishment in 2000 in uniting state leaders across the region to develop and implement a 21st-century passenger rail system. Its overarching mission includes expanding the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative network and integrating additional statesupported corridors into the existing passenger rail infrastructure.


MIPRC holds a primary role in advocating for federal collaboration with states to support passenger rail development, akin to the partnerships in place for other modes of transportation. Additionally, MIPRC ensures that Midwestern states receive the necessary support and interstate coordination to advance the region’s passenger rail improvement plans.


The bipartisan legislation, introduced by Reps. Skindell and Ghanbari, was assigned a bill number on April 10th and was referred to the Economic and Workforce Development Committee on April 23. Its primary objectives include:


  • Promoting current and long-term plans for intercity passenger rail services in the Midwest.

  • Coordinating interaction among Midwestern state officials across public and private sectors at all levels.

  • Supporting ongoing state efforts conducted through state departments of transportation.


The reintroduction of Ohio into the Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Compact aligns with broader efforts to enhance transportation options, stimulate economic development, and improve connectivity for residents and businesses across the region.


The legislature will now review, deliberate, amend, and vote on the bill before it proceeds to the next steps.


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All Aboard Ohio is a 501-C3 non-profit, member-based organization dedicated to promoting more and better intercity passenger rail service and public transit throughout the state. All Aboard Ohio supports the innovation and development of a balanced transportation system that provides viable mobility choices to all Ohioans.


https://www.allaboardohio.org/_files/ugd/903aba_99fc5e616a8b4e99811d0d9e4e20de42.pdf

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John Esterly

John Esterly is the executive director of All Aboard Ohio and has decades of experience in regional development

Our Mission

We advocate for better transit and passenger rail throughout the Midwest. Your support helps us.

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ABOUT ALL ABOARD OHIO
All Aboard Ohio is a non-profit, member-based organization dedicated to promoting improved public transportation and passenger rail service throughout the state. 

Founded in 1973 and incorporated as a registered 501c-3 in 1987, All Aboard Ohio has spent more than 50 years advocating, educating, and working towards our goal of a connected Midwest

All Aboard Ohio is a 501c-3 nonprofit with over 50 years of advocacy work, advocating for improved public transportation and passenger rail service in the Midwest

©2025 by All Aboard Ohio

Get in Touch

Contact us form

info@allaboardohio.org

3136 Kingsdale Center, 


#112 Columbus, OH 43221

Federal Tax ID: 31-1066182

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All Aboard Ohio is a 501c-3 nonprofit with over 50 years of advocacy work, advocating for improved public transportation and passenger rail service in the Midwest

Cleveland Tower Photo by cmh2315fl on Flickr (CC)

©2025 by All Aboard Ohio

Get in Touch

Contact us form

info@allaboardohio.org

3136 Kingsdale Center, 


#112 Columbus, OH 43221

Federal Tax ID: 31-1066182

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  • Bluesky
  • Threads
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