HARRISBURG – Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R-41) issued the following statement regarding SEPTA and PRT seeking approval from PennDOT to use money from the Public Transportation Trust Fund:
“Investing in transit in a responsible manner using existing Public Transportation Trust Fund (PTTF) support, which won’t divert money from the General Fund and without jeopardizing a single capital project, is what we have been unwavering advocates for over the last several months. Had our Democrat colleagues joined us in putting people over politics by supporting and advancing House Bill 257, as passed by the Senate on August 12, this money could have been utilized three weeks sooner – and there would have been no negative impacts to school children, seniors, and everyone who relies on transit services as part of their daily commutes.
“Senators Farry, Picozzi and Pennycuick have been tremendous leaders and instrumental in our efforts to address mass transit needs in a responsible and reliable manner. SEPTA and PRT’s support for our approach to using PTTF dollars is a significant step to help end the chaos felt by riders over the last several weeks.
“While it is encouraging to see the hardships caused by the Democrats’ manufactured crisis coming to an end, it is worth pointing out the only things House and Senate Democrats still haven’t voiced support for are safety and accountability reforms to go along with the transit funding. Senate Republicans will continue to fight for implementation of safety and accountability measures to protect those who rely on transit. It is our hope that over the next two years SEPTA and PRT utilize this time to implement reforms and efficiencies to help ensure their long-term viability.”
MEDIA CONTACT: Kate Flessner kflessner@pasen.gov