SANTA FE, N.M. — According to state records, taxpayers have paid nearly $8 million to settle damage claims against New Mexico’s Rail Runner Express, while the agency itself has not paid anything, reported The Bellingham Herald.

Until last month, the Rail Runner didn't pay premiums for the state's self-insurance program that provides liability coverage for settlements of lawsuits against government agencies. The insurance arrangement represented a little-known subsidy for the state-owned passenger train.

The Rail Runner will pay $2 million to cover liability claims up to $3 million. The Rail Runner buys insurance in the private market for claims over that amount. For the full story, click here.