Schweitzer opposes Amtrak baggage fees for skiers

WHITEFISH (AP) — Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer says a plan by Amtrak to charge a $10 baggage fee for skies and snowboards will unfairly affect the Flathead Valley.

The Flathead Beacon reports (http://bit.ly/RKm3WR) that Schweitzer visited Whitefish Depot on Friday and says the policy singles out Whitefish and that it's a "knuckleheaded idea."

Amtrak passengers have been allowed in the past to being four pieces of baggage, two of which can be carried on free of charge.

Whitefish Mountain Resort officials say 14 percent of skiers heading to Whitefish arrive on the Empire Builder.

Schweitzer sent a letter to Amtrak President Joseph Boardman saying the proposed policy could hurt tourism and the town's partnership with the passenger railroad.