The Association of American Railroads (“AAR”) last week welcomed the Senate’s recent confirmation of David Fink as Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration (“FRA”), calling it a positive step for the rail industry.

AAR’s President & CEO Ian Jefferies praised Fink as a fifth-generation railroader with deep operational experience. Before joining the FRA, Fink served as President of Pan Am Railways, where he oversaw regional freight operations across New England. As Jeffries noted, “[f]reight rail is the backbone of the American economy – moving what matters safely, efficiently, and reliably every day.”

Jefferies emphasized that the AAR looks forward to collaborating with Fink on “smart, evidence-based policies” that strengthen rail safety, efficiency, and supply chain resilience. With Fink’s extensive industry background and the FRA’s regulatory mission, rail carriers and shippers are optimistic about a constructive partnership focused on advancing rail innovation and reliability.

Tags: Association of American Railroads (AAR), David Fink, Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
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Mimi S. Dennis represents leading national and global companies in commercial, civil, and product liability litigation and product regulatory counseling matters. Her clients include Class I and short line railroads, manufacturers, distributors, importers, and retailers.

With a focus on the rail, pharmaceutical, energy…

Mimi S. Dennis represents leading national and global companies in commercial, civil, and product liability litigation and product regulatory counseling matters. Her clients include Class I and short line railroads, manufacturers, distributors, importers, and retailers.

With a focus on the rail, pharmaceutical, energy, and construction industries, Mimi defends clients in multidistrict proceedings, arbitrations, and other complex litigation. She also has first chair bench and jury trial experience. Mimi understands the nuances of the industries in which her clients operate, and she strives to help them balance litigation risks with business goals. Clients appreciate her hands-on approach and her sincere interest in developing strong personal relationships and a deep understanding of their businesses. Staying current on litigation issues, Mimi has published several articles on environmental and civil litigation matters, ranging from a discussion of class action certification to defenses in pharmaceutical failure-to-warn cases.

On the counseling side of her practice, Mimi helps clients limit risk and avoid liability and compliance issues. Representing clients in the food, beverage, chemical, medical device, and pharmaceutical industries, she handles regulatory matters before federal and state agencies, including FDA, EPA, and IRBs. Acting as an advisor to her clients, she carefully assesses risks, recommends actions, and counsels clients on contract formation, negotiation, and interpretation.

Mimi is a member of the firm’s Mass Tort, Product, and Consumer Litigation, Product Risk Management, and Transportation groups. In 2024, she was selected as a member of the Law360 Transportation Editorial Board and accepted as a member of the General Counsel Committee of the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA). Mimi maintains an active pro bono practice focused on providing legal services to immigrant women and girls who are survivors of gender-based violence, and has also served as a guardian ad litem in D.C. Superior Court.

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