IDOT-RAIL ASSISTANCE-POWERS

Amends the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois (Department of Transportation Law). Provides that the Department of Transportation is authorized to exercise those powers necessary for the State to qualify for rail assistance funds pursuant to relevant federal or State legislation (rather than pursuant to provisions of the federal Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973, the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976, or other relevant federal or State legislation). Provides that the Department is authorized to review all impending rail abandonments and provide its recommendations on those abandonments to the federal Surface Transportation Board (rather than to the Interstate Commerce Commission). Removes a requirement for the Department to report results of a review of the effects of all rail freight service assistance to the General Assembly. Effective immediately.