Pennsylvania Senate Approves SEPTA Funding Plan Amidst Democratic Opposition: What It Means for Public Transit

The Pennsylvania Senate recently passed a bill to help fund SEPTA, aiming to prevent major service cuts that could severely impact residents. However, this bill still needs approval from the state House, where it’s likely to face opposition.

The legislation, introduced by Republican Sen. Joe Picozzi, passed with a 27-22 vote. It proposes using the Pennsylvania Transit Trust Fund to keep SEPTA running for the next two years while ensuring safety and accountability. Picozzi described the bill as a necessary measure to handle a looming funding crisis.

Despite the Senate’s efforts, Governor Josh Shapiro’s spokesperson criticized the plan, saying it lacks the seriousness needed to address the issue long-term. Democrats echoed this concern. Sen. Nikil Saval claimed the proposal would divert funds from crucial infrastructure projects. Speaker Joanna McClinton added that this approach doesn’t solve the larger funding problem but rather complicates it.

SEPTA officials expressed gratitude for the Senate’s attempt to secure funding but warned of confusion regarding the sources of money. They emphasized the need for a sustainable solution to secure the transit system’s future.

Compounding the urgency, the House recently passed a Democrat-backed bill aimed at providing SEPTA with necessary funding to avoid service cuts. This legislation, supported by Shapiro, passed with a narrow 108-95 vote.

### The Impact on Philadelphia Students

With Philadelphia students returning to school soon, SEPTA’s service cuts could significantly affect their daily commutes. Many students rely on SEPTA for transportation. According to spokesperson Andrew Busch, fewer transportation options could lead to longer commutes, with students needing to transfer between multiple routes.

For example, Stanley, a parent in West Philadelphia, voiced concern about overcrowding and delays his son might face due to reduced trolley service. Currently, around 52,000 students in Philadelphia rely on SEPTA to get to school. District leaders fear that poor transit options could hurt student attendance.

Dr. Tony Watlington, the superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, stressed that keeping students in school is crucial, stating they aim for students to attend at least 90% of the time each month. Unfortunately, they can’t simply increase yellow bus service due to driver shortages and inefficiencies.

With the anticipated cuts, the district is working with local police to enhance safety for children walking longer distances to school.

### What’s at Stake if Cuts Occur?

SEPTA faces a daunting $213 million budget shortfall. If state funding isn’t secured soon, the agency may implement “doomsday” cuts starting August 24. These cuts could lead to the elimination of 32 bus routes, shortening 16 more, and reducing service on numerous subway and rail lines by up to 20%. Fare increases of 21.5% are also on the table, starting September 1.

SEPTA’s chief planning officer, Jody Holton, warned that such drastic measures are unprecedented among major transit systems.

As SEPTA navigates this funding crisis, it remains crucial for the involved agencies to collaborate on finding a lasting solution that ensures public transit remains available and reliable for all residents.



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Pennsylvania, Josh Shapiro, Philadelphia