Federal agencies and the scope of their functions.
Many are not aware of just how many federal agencies there are and the scope of their functions. As President Trump recently stated in numerous campaign speeches, some things are going to have to be cut. You are responsible for saving your agency.
You will deliver a 2 minute speech to President Trump (me!) and his advisors (the rest of the class) pleading your case for continued funding for your agency. Along with your speech, you are responsible for creating an executive summary which should include the following listed below:
Some things to include in your executive summary
● When it was founded and why? What department is above it?● How it developed over the years – the highs and lows ● Why is it still important now? ● How much funding has it received in the past fiscal year? ● How many employees does it have?● Who is in charge of this department or agency?
about amtrak
Sample Solution
Executive Summary
Agency: Amtrak
Department: Department of Transportation
Date Founded: May 1, 1971
Reason for Founding: Amtrak was founded as a result of the collapse of the private passenger rail industry in the United States. The federal government created Amtrak to provide a national passenger rail service.
Development Over the Years:
- 1971-1980: Amtrak struggled financially in its early years. The company was subsidized by the federal government, but it was not able to generate enough revenue to cover its costs.
Full Answer Section
- 1981-1990: Amtrak began to improve its financial performance in the 1980s. The company implemented a number of cost-saving measures, and it also benefited from increased ridership.
- 1991-2000: Amtrak continued to improve its financial performance in the 1990s. The company expanded its service to new markets, and it also began to invest in new equipment.
- 2001-present: Amtrak has faced a number of challenges in the 21st century. The company has experienced declining ridership, and it has also faced competition from low-cost airlines. However, Amtrak has remained committed to providing a national passenger rail service.
- Highs:
- Amtrak has a long and rich history. The company has played a vital role in connecting people and communities across the United States.
- Amtrak has a loyal customer base. Many people prefer to travel by train because it is a more relaxing and scenic experience than flying.
- Amtrak is committed to sustainability. The company is working to reduce its environmental impact and to improve its energy efficiency.
- Lows:
- Amtrak has struggled financially throughout its history. The company has relied on federal subsidies to stay afloat.
- Amtrak has experienced declining ridership in recent years. This is due to a number of factors, including competition from low-cost airlines and the rise of ride-hailing services.
- Amtrak has faced criticism for its aging infrastructure and its poor on-time performance.
- Amtrak provides a vital transportation link for many people in the United States. The company serves over 500 destinations in 46 states.
- Amtrak is a more environmentally friendly way to travel than flying or driving. Trains produce fewer emissions and use less energy.
- Amtrak is a vital part of the nation's transportation network. The company connects people and communities across the country, and it helps to support economic development.