IL SR1088

Urges Congress to enact tax incentives encouraging rail carriers to use natural gas-powered locomotives and develop liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure

Notes that seven major U.S. freight railroads consumed over 3.6 billion gallons of diesel fuel in 2012, costing more than $11 billion and accounting for 23% of operating expenses

Highlights that LNG-fueled locomotives can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 30% and nitrogen oxide emissions by approximately 70%, with fuel cost savings potentially offsetting the $1 million incremental cost per locomotive

References successful international LNG locomotive tests, including Canadian National's 2012-2013 trial and Indian Railways' plan to convert existing locomotives to dual-fuel LNG engines to cut diesel consumption by 20%

Directs copies of the resolution be sent to U.S. Congressional leadership including Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Speaker Paul Ryan, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, and all Illinois Congressional Delegation members