Philadelphia House Delegation calls for additional state funding for public transit following SEPTA’s announced plan for fare adjustments
Public transit systems in financial need statewide
Rep. Jordan A. Harris September 5, 2024 | 4:43 PM
PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 5 – Members of the Philadelphia House Delegation today called on state lawmakers to work in earnest this fall to shore up public transit systems across the state, especially in Philadelphia where SEPTA is facing a $240 million annual budget deficit and is planning to increase fares.
SEPTA officials today announced a plan to increase fares on Dec. 1 and is planning a public hearing on the proposal for Oct. 16.
“Today’s decision proves two facts: SEPTA is doing everything they can to prevent a true fare increase, and the PA Senate has to stop holding funding for transit systems hostage to political games,” said Delegation Chair Morgan Cephas, D-Phila. “We know this decision by SEPTA wasn’t made lightly. The Senate’s reckless refusal to accept the importance of public transit during this year’s budget negotiations is going to impact so many working people.
“We’re ready to work with the Senate and all stakeholders to support not just SEPTA riders, but people in every county in Pennsylvania who count on transit to get to work, to school, to shop, to the doctor and more. It must be addressed now, before it is too late,” she said.
In March, the delegation played an integral part in passing legislation that would provide recurring funds for public transportation in Pennsylvania. The measure would have significantly increased the transfer of revenue to the Public Transportation Trust Fund and helped SEPTA’s deficit, however, the Senate did not approve the plan.
“Public transportation is crucial to many communities across the commonwealth and especially here in Philadelphia with SEPTA,” said Delegation Vice Chair Danilo Burgos, D-Phila. “Whether it’s by bus, train or subway, nearly 1 million people use SEPTA for transportation daily in the Philadelphia region. Riders fill our state’s coffers every day as they go to work or shop using public transit. Unfortunately, the state’s response in this year’s budget was just a drop in the bucket. We must do more.”
House Appropriations Chairman Jordan Harris, D-Phila., also noted House Democrats’ efforts to get more funding to public transit agencies.
“As a resident of Philadelphia and the Majority Appropriations Chairman, I understand how vital SEPTA is to the everyday lives of so many Pennsylvanians, especially in our city,” Harris said. “Public transit isn't just a convenience — it's a lifeline for working families, students and seniors who depend on it for their daily commutes and essential services.
“My Republican colleague, Representative Kerry Benninghoff, is right when he says transit isn't just an urban issue. Communities in both rural and urban areas rely on accessible transportation to connect to jobs, health care and education. SEPTA's financial challenges highlight the urgent need for increased, sustainable funding — not just for Philadelphia, but for the entire commonwealth.
“House Democrats have acted, passing several bills that offer solutions for mass transit funding. Despite this, the Republican-controlled PA Senate has become a roadblock to progress. Riders must bear the burden of these shortfalls, which ignore the needs of working Pennsylvanians in both urban and rural communities.
“We need our colleagues in the Republican-controlled state Senate to act to secure funding for public transit,” he said.
Cephas said that the delegation will look at SEPTA’s plan as it develops its legislative response.