BNSF Railway Lobbying for Drone Regulations with Bill Frist's Expertise

BNSF Railway's Drone Security Initiative

BNSF Railway Company has engaged Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld to advocate on matters associated with U.S. drone security solutions. The rail powerhouse has expanded its drone operations over the years, successfully obtaining an innovative FAA waiver to operate drones beyond the visual line of sight for infrastructure inspections.

Lobbying Firms and Political Connections

Charlie Johnson, a previous law clerk for the Democratic staff of the House Judiciary Committee, is set to manage this significant account. Additionally, BlackRock has acquired Cornerstone Government Affairs to strategize regarding asset management industry dynamics in collaboration with Congress. Notably, this marks the fourth new lobbying firm assisting BlackRock since June.

Key Lobbyists in Focus

• David Planning — former floor director for Rep. Tom Emmer and special assistant to President Trump.
• Alex Vogel — previously served as chief counsel to former Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist.
• David Skillman — once deputy chief of staff and counsel to Rep. Earl Blumenauer.
• William Hollier — former chief of staff for Sen. Mike Crapo.

Furthermore, the Natural Resources Defense Fund (NRDC) enlisted the exciting Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP to lobby on government regulations concerning tech-neutral energy tax credits.

Moving Ahead in Regulatory Challenges

The American Council of Life Insurers has appointed Hollier & Associates to advocate for the reauthorization of the 2017 tax reform bill and to modify capital tax treatment for debt investments.

This collaborative effort among lobbyists highlights the ongoing intersection of interests in transportation, energy, and finance, demonstrating the growing importance of drone technology and regulatory advocacy in shaping the future of these industries.