MASSPIRG seeks increased revenue for public transportation
Boston, MA – The Joint Committee on Transportation heard testimony today in support of an increase in the gas tax. MASSPIRG is calling on the legislature to increase revenue in order to fund transportation.
“Our entire transportation system is facing a severe budget crisis,” said MASSPIRG Staff Attorney Lizzi Weyant. “We need legislation that will both increase funding for public transportation and support programs aimed at fixing our crumbling roads and bridges.”
The Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (the T) is currently $8 billion in debt, and has $2.7 billion worth of deferred maintenance needs. Without an increase in revenue for the T, the agency will be forced to make a Hobson’s choice between offering service, and maintaining a safe and affordable public transportation system.
“The legislature needs to invest in the nation’s oldest transportation system because the T has so many benefits to residents of the commonwealth. It takes drivers off the road, reduces our dependence on oil, and reduces traffic delays,” says Weyant. “The time for an investment in the T is now.”
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12-07-2009-Testimony-on-Gas-Tax-Bills.doc