MO HB1117

Creates the Missouri and Midwest Rail Integration and Improvement Commission consisting of 15 members: 12 public members appointed by the governor and 3 ex officio members (directors of transportation and economic development, plus a Class I freight railroad representative)

Requires the commission to prepare a comprehensive report by March 20, 2013 recommending governmental structure for a public-private partnership to design, build, operate, maintain, and finance an improved rail system (trains capable of traveling over 150 mph) for Missouri and the Midwest

Mandates the commission develop a process to receive public and stakeholder input from global rail operators including Amtrak, and solicit testimony from other Midwest states and local government representatives

Establishes meeting requirements of at least monthly meetings until April 2013, then quarterly thereafter, with majority of members constituting a quorum for business

Allows the Department of Transportation to provide staff support and the commission to accept monetary gifts and grants from public or private sources to fund operations