Time to act is now on SEPTA funding, Shapiro says

Governor Josh Shapiro urged Republican Senate leaders to secure funding for SEPTA to prevent significant service cuts in Philadelphia. SEPTA announced plans to eliminate 32 bus routes and increase fares if funding is not approved by Thursday, impacting thousands of riders. Shapiro stated, “We are past the point of short-term stopgap measures,” emphasizing the need for recurring revenue for public transit. Local resident Autumn Fingerhood voiced concerns over her daughter’s transportation to school amid the potential cuts, highlighting the challenges faced by working families. SEPTA's proposed budget cuts aim to close a $215 million deficit caused by the end of federal COVID-19 relief funds and rising operational costs.

The House plans to pass another transit funding package, marking its fifth attempt to boost funding amid ongoing resistance in the Senate. The proposed legislation includes transparency and accountability measures sought by Senate Republicans. Without new funding, SEPTA’s service reductions could significantly hinder public transit accessibility across the region.