1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong support for increased funding for public transit in Pennsylvania, particularly for SEPTA. As you are aware, SEPTA is facing a significant $240 million annual budget deficit, which has led to proposed fare hikes and potential service cuts that may go into effect as soon as December. These measures, while necessary to address the immediate financial shortfall, are not sustainable solutions and will place an undue burden on the many Pennsylvanians and tourists who rely on public transit for their daily commutes and exploring our beautiful Commonwealth. The proposed fare adjustments, which include raising SEPTA Key fares and other contactless payment methods to $2.50, eliminating discounts for Regional Rail riders, and increasing fares for various groups, are expected to generate an additional $14.4 million in annual revenue. However, this is only a fraction of the funding needed to maintain and improve our public transit system. Public transit is a vital resource for all 67 counties in Pennsylvania, serving as a lifeline for both urban and rural communities. It supports our economy by providing reliable transportation for workers, students, and seniors, and it helps reduce traffic congestion and environmental pollution. The expiration of federal relief provided during the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated SEPTA's financial challenges, and the one-time additional payment of $51 million approved in the current state budget is insufficient to prevent further fare increases and service cuts. I urge you to prioritize public transit funding in the upcoming legislative session and to work towards a long-term solution that will provide SEPTA and other transit agencies across the state with the financial stability they need. Investing in public transit is an investment in our communities, our economy, and our environment. Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. I look forward to your support in ensuring that Pennsylvania's public transit systems remain robust and reliable for all residents.