Statement: American Rescue Plan provides critical emergency funding for public transportation

The latest COVID-19 relief package allocates $30.5 billion for transit agencies to reverse service cuts as they continue to support essential workers and ensure vaccine accessibility

USPIRG

WASHINGTON — The United States House of Representatives’ passed the American Rescue Plan Act on Wednesday with more than $30 billion in funding to help transit agencies avoid major service cuts due to COVID-19-related budget challenges. This money will help ensure these agencies can continue to serve as a lifeline for essential workers, provide Americans with access to vaccines and help communities across the country begin to recover from the devastating effects of the pandemic.

In addition to providing short-term relief for transit agency operating budgets, this new funding will ensure that public transit plays a vital role in helping the U.S. achieve its bold new climate goals. Shifting away from decades of car-centered transportation infrastructure and toward long-term investment in clean, convenient and accessible transit will reduce air pollution and improve quality of life for millions of Americans.

In response, U.S. PIRG Transportation Advocate John Stout issued the following statement:

“We thank Congress for recognizing the importance of public transportation and providing critical relief for our nation’s transit agencies. As we emerge from the pandemic, this investment will be crucial to ensure that agencies across the country are able to continue to provide essential services for those who need it.” 

“Public transit is critical to America’s long-term recovery; we need to transform our country’s transportation to clean up our air, protect our climate and make transit service work better for all Americans. We look forward to continuing to work with Congress to provide sustainable investment in public transportation infrastructure.”