Rail carrier associations recommend new industry representative for Railroad Retirement Board

Thomas Jayne

Two rail industry associations nominated this week Thomas Jayne, a BNSF Railway attorney, for a position on the federal Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) to serve as industry representative when Steven Anthony’s term ends.

The recommendation came from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) and the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA). It would see Jayne, a senior general attorney for BNSF, serve as one of three RRB members administering retirement and disability benefits for railroad workers and their families.

“He enjoys the confidence and full support of the railroad employers who will be affected by his appointment,” AAR President and CEO Edward Hamberger and ASLRRA’s Judy Petry said in a letter of recommendation.

All members of the board must be appointed by the president of the United States, with the advice and consent of the Senate. One member is traditionally recommended by railroad employers, one by labor organizations while the third represents the public at large. Board members serve five-year terms.