Semiannual Report to Congress #61 (October 1, 2019 to March 31, 2020)

I am pleased to submit the Amtrak Office of Inspector General Semiannual Report to the United States Congress for the six months ending March 31, 2020. We are submitting this report at a time when Amtrak is facing unprecedented challenges as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Ridership has dropped to historic lows, revenue losses are mounting, and service across the country has been reduced or canceled while the country adjusts to this national emergency. As the nation’s passenger railroad, however, Amtrak continues to operate its trains and designated its core personnel as “essential.”

We are keenly aware of the challenges the company faces, and we remain dedicated to balancing our mission requirements with those of Amtrak as it works through the issues and uncertainties associated with the pandemic.

We appreciate that Congress has recognized the important role of the accountability community at this critical time. As historic levels of federal relief quickly flow to Americans, state and local governments, hospitals, and businesses such as Amtrak, the risk of fraud, waste, and abuse will undoubtedly increase. We and our oversight partners remain committed to providing the necessary attention that will help ensure those vast resources are used appropriately.