Whereas, it is imperative that the study authorized in this legislation begin immediately so that the report may be made in a timely manner; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore, be it

Sec. 1. Task force established. Resolved: That the Task Force on Rail Transportation, referred to in this resolve as the "task force," is established to develop a rail transportation policy for the State; and be it further

Sec. 2. Membership. Resolved: That the task force consists of 13 members appointed as follows:

1. Two members of the Joint Standing Committee on Appropriations and Financial Affairs, one of whom is appointed by the President of the Senate and one of whom is appointed by the Speaker of the House;

2. Three members of the Joint Standing Committee on Business and Economic Development, 2 of whom are appointed by the President of the Senate and one of whom is appointed by the Speaker of the House;

3. Three members of the Joint Standing Committee on Transportation, one of whom is appointed by the President of the Senate and 2 of whom are appointed by the Speaker of the House;

4. One member representing the Board of Directors of the Maine Port Authority, appointed by the President of the Senate;

5. One member representing railroad shippers, appointed by the Speaker of the House;

6. One member representing an airport that currently is integrated with an existing rail system, appointed by the President of the Senate;

7. One member representing the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority, appointed by the Speaker of the House; and

8. One member representing a private railroad in Maine, appointed by the Speaker of the House; and be it further