Protect Public Transit: Fully Fund SEPTA and Prevent Service Cuts

As a SEPTA rider and Pennsylvania resident, I am deeply concerned about the looming threat of devastating service cuts and fare hikes. Public transit is not just a convenience — it is a lifeline for hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians who rely on it to get to work, school, medical appointments, and more. SEPTA is facing a $240 million budget shortfall that could lead to drastic reductions in service, a proposed 21.5% fare increase, and the elimination of nearly half of its transit routes. These changes would disproportionately impact low-income communities, people with disabilities, students, and seniors — the very residents who depend on affordable and accessible transit the most. At the recent “We’re Not Getting There Without SEPTA” rally at City Hall, riders, labor unions, and elected officials united to demand action. We cannot allow SEPTA to enter a death spiral of declining service and ridership. Without adequate state funding, these cuts could cripple the economic, social, and environmental health of our region. Reliable public transportation strengthens our communities, reduces traffic congestion and pollution, and supports job access and economic development. I urge you to fully fund SEPTA and pass legislation that ensures sustainable, long-term investment in Pennsylvania’s public transit systems. Please protect the future of public transportation for all Pennsylvanians.