It has never been more clear: Pennsylvania needs new revenue sources to keep transit systems moving across the Commonwealth. The PA Supreme Court’s recent decision on skill games underscores that creating new revenue sources is possible, necessary, and urgent. At this critical moment, Transit supporters can take action now to encourage their legislators to create new revenue sources that keep transit moving in every PA community.
Transit advocates have long been urging lawmakers to identify new revenue sources to fund mass transit across Pennsylvania. Last year, legislators in both chambers introduced the Transit For All PA! funding package that included a proposal for new revenue from three different fees. More than a 40 State Senators and Representatives have co-sponsored this legislative package
Legislative leaders have used potential skill games revenue to stall funding a new funding source, holding up negotiations in last year’s budget cycle. Now that the Supreme Court has cleared the legal gray area, there are no more excuses.
With the recent Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling declaring that unregulated “skill games” are legally considered slot machines under state law, speculation is swirling on whether or not skill games will be taxed and regulated. Throughout negotiations last year, the idea of using skill games revenue to fill the gap in public transportation funding was proposed by both Republican and Democratic leaders.
Legislators face a June 30tH state budget deadline. Now is the time for them to come back to the table to consider all revenue-generating options.
Why This Matters Right Now
Public transportation keeps the Commonwealth’s economy moving, but our transit agencies are facing a severe funding crisis. We need to remind our leaders exactly what is at stake:
- Economic Lifeline: Transit connects workers to their jobs, driving regional economies across PA.
- Essential Access: It ensures seniors can get to critical medical appointments.
- Community Connection: It opens up mobility for families to go on shopping trips and access daily necessities.
- Long-Term and Dedicated Funding: It is imperative that public transit has a long-term and dedicated funding source so that systems across the state can renew and increase service.
