A joint resolution extending the cooling-off period under section 10 of the Railway Labor Act with respect to the dispute referred to in Executive Order No. 13586 of October 6, 2011.

Whereas the labor dispute between numerous rail carriers that are common carriers by rail in interstate commerce, and certain of their employees represented by labor organizations, threatens to interrupt essential freight rail services of the United States;

Whereas it is essential to the national interest that essential freight rail services be maintained;

Whereas Congress finds that emergency measures are essential to maintaining the security and continuity of freight rail services;

Whereas the President, by Executive Order 13586 of October 6, 2011, and pursuant to the provisions of section 10 of the Railway Labor Act (45 U.S.C. 160), created Presidential Emergency Board 243 to investigate the dispute and report findings;

Whereas the recommendations of the Emergency Board 243 issued on November 5, 2011, have been exhausted and have not resulted in settlement of the dispute;

Whereas Congress, under the Commerce Clause of the Constitution, has the authority and responsibility to ensure the uninterrupted operation of essential freight rail services; and

Whereas Congress has in the past enacted legislation for such purposes: Now, therefore, be it