§ 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.