Today, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed HB 1364, advancing several key elements of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s initial funding package. In response, Evergreen Senior Transportation Policy Lead Liya Rechtman released the following statement: 

“As transit agencies across Pennsylvania face an unprecedented funding crisis, it’s essential that state leaders step up to protect the lifelines connecting people to jobs, school, healthcare, and other essential services. Public transit is a cornerstone of Pennsylvania's economy and quality of life. But without immediate support and funding, transit agencies will be forced to implement severe service reductions and fare increases that will disrupt the daily lives of Pennsylvanians across the Commonwealth. Agencies like SEPTA and Pittsburgh Regional Transit have already announced significant cuts and fare hikes exceeding 20 percent—moves that threaten to deepen inequities and undermine economic growth. 

“We commend the House for voting to move transit funding forward.  As lawmakers move into budget negotiations, we urge House leadership to elevate full funding for public transit as a top priority to prevent further disruptions and encourage equitable access to affordable, reliable transportation for all Pennsylvanians.” 

Prior to passage, a coalition of 22 organizations sent a letter to Speaker Joanna McClinton and Pennsylvania House Democrats Monday afternoon, calling for urgent action to secure full funding for the state’s public transit systems during upcoming budget negotiations. The letter urged lawmakers to prioritize dedicated transit funding to avoid service cuts and rate hikes, and ensure public transportation remains affordable and accessible for communities in every county.