§ 2642-a. Legislative findings and intent. The legislature hereby
finds and determines that:

1. The continued existence and strengthening of the system of
railroads serving Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Allegany and Steuben counties
in New York state and Warren and Erie counties in the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania is essential to the long term viability of the economies,
municipalities, and ways of life in these counties.

2. The viability and existence of the system of railroads serving
Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Allegany and Steuben counties in New York state
and Warren and Erie counties in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is
threatened by the dynamic economics of the railroad industry.

3. By creating the Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Allegany and Steuben
southern tier extension railroad authority, it is the intent of the
legislature to preserve and enhance the system of railroads serving
Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Allegany and Steuben counties in New York state
and Warren and Erie counties in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, so as
to insure a healthy economy for these counties.