The Surface Transportation Board accepted Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern’s revised merger application that was submitted on April 30, according to the agency. The application for the proposed merger is now up for consideration by the board.
The STB had previously rejected the network merger proposal, filed on Dec. 19, 2025, citing it as incomplete because it missed certain required information under board regulations.
Still, the agency accepted the revised application even though it “does not contain the level of detail on certain issues that the Board would have preferred, particularly given the benefit of Board decisions and stakeholder comments after the original Application,” per a docket file on the recent decision.
Both railroads are directed to submit supplemental details by July 27. Information being asked by the STB consists of further details on how the proposed merger will result in enhanced competition and additional measures if public benefits claimed in the application don’t come to fruition in a timely matter.
Rail competitors had argued the application was incomplete. Industry stakeholders have also flagged concerns over the merger, such as increased risk for higher rates and stifled rail competition. The STB said that issues raised in comments do not warrant rejecting the revised application.
Union Pacific said in a press release that the two railroads will continue working closely with the STB to provide the requested information.
“Under the governing statute, the STB has 12 months from the date it publishes its acceptance to complete its evidentiary proceedings, providing a clear and defined path forward regardless of the timing of individual steps,” UP said.
