TOEFL Integrated Writing Practice Test 009Amtrak

Amtrak, an intercity rail service, is currently owned by the United States government, but some critics argue that it should be sold to a private company. These critics offer several reasons to support their viewpoint.

First, they highlight that Amtrak operates at a financial loss on many of its routes. In an effort to serve citizens in all regions, including remote and sparsely populated areas, Amtrak continues to run services that do not attract enough passengers to cover the cost of operation. The financial losses from underused routes are significant, with some routes costing the government several hundred dollars per passenger. In total, these losses amount to hundreds of millions of dollars each year. Critics argue that privatizing Amtrak would allow a private company to eliminate these unprofitable routes.

Second, critics claim that government ownership of Amtrak creates an uneven playing field for private transportation companies, like airlines. Since Amtrak receives government funding, it can offer lower ticket prices than it otherwise could. In contrast, airlines do not receive similar financial support from the government to lower their ticket prices. As a result, critics argue that the current situation is unfair to airlines and other private transportation providers, as they must compete with Amtrak for customers.

Third, opponents of government ownership suggest that federal funds would be better spent on other transportation infrastructure. Rail travel accounts for a very small portion of intercity travel in the United States, with Amtrak serving less than 1 percent of all intercity travelers. Most travelers rely on other forms of transportation, such as private cars. Critics argue that instead of subsidizing Amtrak, the government should invest in the nation’s highway system, making it faster and more efficient for those who travel by car.