About STB > Office: OPAGAC

The Office of Public Assistance, Governmental Affairs, and Compliance (OPAGAC) serves as the Surface Transportation Board’s principal point of contact for members of the general public, governmental entities, railroad customers, and the news media.

OPAGAC is divided into two sections. The Section of External Affairs handles the agency’s public outreach. The Section for of Operations and Records oversees all aspects of rail operations subject to the agency’s jurisdiction to ensure that such operations are consistent with each carrier’s statutory and regulatory responsibilities. This section also provides certified copies of documents and maintains the STB Library.

Office staff members are thoroughly knowledgeable about the STB and its processes, as well as the operational components of the rail industry. They are available to answer questions about the STB’s official decisions, pending cases, and the laws that we implement. OPAGAC does not provide opinions about how the STB Members will vote on a particular case, or when a case will be decided.

OPAGAC houses the STB’s Rail Customer and Public Assistance Program. Initiated in 2000, the Program provides an informal venue for the private-sector resolution of shipper-railroad disputes, and also assists Board stakeholders seeking guidance in complying with Board decisions and regulations. At no cost to parties, the Program facilitates communication among the various segments of the rail-transportation industry, and encourages solutions to railroad operational and service issues without the use of litigation or the Board’s formal processes.