Join MPTA in Advocating for Transit Funding

October 18, 2024

Join MPTA in Advocating for Transit Funding

The MPTA is working to boost our legislative advocacy and coordinate with public transit allies for the upcoming “lame duck” session. This period after the election may bring about several opportunities to help increase local bus operating funding for both the current fiscal year and beyond.

While it is impossible to predict how this will unfold, it is important to communicate with legislators to share the broad message that action must be taken to restore local bus operating funding. We will continue our work in Lansing and are glad to assist you in local outreach, but we are encouraging transit leaders to contact legislators with any of the messages below:

• Public transit is essential for Michiganders who ride every day to work, school, vital medical appointments, family visits, and more.

• Despite growing recognition of the need for expanded transit access, the FY25 budget cut state funding for local bus service to the lowest share ever.

• In also facing rising operating costs and increased local services competing for state support, many transit agencies are confronting potential cuts to critical staffing and services. These cuts take away the ability of Michiganders to make essential trips and are putting strains on our communities.

• The Michigan legislature must act – at minimum – to restore local bus operating support to the most recent level of $261 million and ensure that public transit is part of future transportation and economic development funding.