Oregon Transit Association Urges Legislative Action to Preserve Transit Services
Salem, OR – The Oregon Transit Association (OTA) is calling on the Oregon Legislature to secure crucial funding to prevent significant cuts to transit services statewide, which could affect the daily lives of countless Oregonians. Without increased financial support beyond the current provisions in the 2025 statewide transportation package, the OTA warns that transit agencies may reduce services by up to 25% in the coming years, posing grave risks to the economy, environment, and overall quality of life.
The proposed funding framework includes a minor 0.08% hike in the employee payroll tax rate, a move OTA deems insufficient given the stakes. Currently, an individual earning $50,000 contributes approximately $4.17 monthly, while average drivers pay around $40 a month in gas taxes. The OTA advocates for a phased 0.4% increase over eight years, asserting that this adjustment is vital to avert a public transportation crisis.
A recent survey revealed alarming trends, as 63% of transit agencies are grappling with current or projected budget deficits. Inflation has compounded challenges for transit operators, with service costs surging nearly 50% since 2019. Additionally, shifts in commuting patterns due to remote work have led to diminished fare revenues.
Oregon’s transit systems are critical for connecting residents, especially seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, to essential services. Leaders within the OTA emphasize that investing in public transit yields economic returns, estimating that every dollar spent generates five dollars in local economic activity.
The OTA urges lawmakers to take action in this legislative session to make a transformative investment in Oregon’s public transportation infrastructure, emphasizing the dire consequences of inaction.
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