Public Utility Law
Nauman Smith has extensive experience in representing transportation common carriers before the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC). Our representation has centered on the railroad industry, for both Class I and short line railroads, and others in a wide variety of proceedings. In rail-highway crossing and other matters in which the PUC has regulatory jurisdiction to ensure the public safety, significant amounts of money can be at stake. Our attorneys have represented railroads in complex crossing abolition proceedings, bridge and at-grade crossing reconstruction and repair proceedings, and application proceedings initiated by governmental entities to establish new at-grade crossings. PUC proceedings can implicate operational as well as safety matters for railroads, such as construction which would interfere with the safe operation of a rail line.
Often cases that begin before the PUC require representation in other Courts on related aspects of the matter. We have represented railroads in federal injunction actions, as well as in state courts in order to enforce contracts with other public utilities or to represent a railroad before a Board of View in a condemnation action by PennDOT. Nauman Smith attorneys have also represented the railroads in negotiating or enforcing contracts for private crossings.
In addition to regulating certain aspects of the railroad industry, the PUC regulates other common carriers, such as household goods carriers and limousine companies. We also have experience in these areas, representing companies seeking authority to establish services or in enforcement proceedings before the PUC.
For more information contact, Benjamin C. Dunlap or Craig J. Staudenmaier.
Nauman Smith Shissler & Hall, LLP
200 North 3rd Street, 18th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
717.236.3010
fax: 717.234.1925
info@nssh.com