HARRISBURG, PA — On Tuesday, the state House of Representatives approved House Bill 2625, a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing transit funding across the commonwealth. Authored by Representative Ed Neilson, the majority chair of the House Transportation Committee, this bill seeks to increase the allocation of the state’s sales tax revenue to support public transit systems.
Under House Bill 2625, the percentage of sales tax revenue dedicated to transit funding will rise from 4.4% to 6.15%. This adjustment is projected to generate approximately $282 million in additional funding for public transportation services statewide, covering all 67 counties without imposing any new taxes. This move underscores the state’s commitment to bolstering transit infrastructure vital for urban, rural, and suburban communities.
Representative Neilson emphasized the critical nature of reliable public transit, particularly for groups such as seniors and individuals with disabilities who depend on these services for essential tasks including medical appointments. “We’ve voted three times on legislation that would allow mass transit agencies across the commonwealth to continue providing vital services,” he stated, highlighting the bill’s potential to sustain and expand transit operations.
The bill’s passage in the House marks a significant step forward, but the legislative journey continues as it now heads to the Pennsylvania Senate for consideration. The outcome of the Senate’s decision will determine the future landscape of transit funding and service provision across the state.
House Bill 2625 is a pivotal piece of legislation that, if enacted, promises to improve the quality and reach of public transportation in Pennsylvania, ensuring accessibility and efficiency for all residents. As the state anticipates the Senate’s deliberations, stakeholders and citizens alike are closely monitoring the progress, hopeful for a resolution that supports the transportation needs of Pennsylvanians.
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