HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania House Democratic Leaders have issued a stark warning regarding the potential fallout from proposed SEPTA service cuts and fare hikes, urging immediate action to secure funding for public transit in the state budget.
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) faces severe reductions in bus and rail routes, service eliminations, and fare increases if state funding does not materialize. These changes could impact the 800,000 daily riders, while putting 175,000 more cars on the roads, creating ripple effects across the regional economy.
“We are extremely concerned about the impacts Pennsylvanians will feel, including those in the southeast region, if mass transit systems across the state like SEPTA are not funded through the state budget,” the lawmakers stated.
They emphasized the economic and social consequences of inaction, warning that limited transit options could increase job access challenges and strain local infrastructure. The Democratic leaders also placed the blame on Senate Republicans, citing their refusal to advance previous funding proposals despite repeated legislative efforts by House Democrats and Governor Josh Shapiro.
“We’re ready to do the right thing again, but the question remains: Will Senate Republicans again abandon people in their own communities who rely on public transportation systems?”
The statement reiterated House Democrats’ commitment to fully funding SEPTA and mass transit statewide, vowing solidarity with both riders and workers impacted by the proposed changes.
SEPTA’s plea for state funding marks a critical juncture for transit systems not only in Philadelphia but across Pennsylvania, as budget negotiations continue.
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