STB to look at BNSF purchase

   The Surface Transportation Board said Wednesday it has initiated a public proceeding to examine the regulatory effects of the price Berkshire Hathaway paid when it acquired BNSF Railway last year.
   In May, the Western Coal Traffic League petitioned the STB to adjust its costing system as a result of the purchase price. BNSF opposed this effort.
   The STB said it has “discretionary authority to issue a declaratory order to terminate a controversy or remove uncertainty.”
   While this proceeding is underway, the board said it will continue using the purchase price at issue in its costing and revenue adequacy calculations. If the board later determines that different calculations are in order, it will consider any necessary recalculations or revisions at that time.
   “This formal proceeding will allow stakeholders and the public to bring their perspectives to the board,” said STB Chairman Daniel R.
Elliott III, in a statement. “This complex issue should be examined in a transparent way, with the inclusion of as many views and voices as possible.”