Salem, Oregon – Salem-Keizer Transit expresses its strong concerns for the provisions in House Bill H.R. 3864, the federal American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Financing Act. This bill would eliminate dedicated federal fuels taxes for public transit and create long-term uncertainty for public transportation funding for the first time since the Reagan administration. This change would have real consequences for the thousands of people in Salem and Keizer who rely on public transit.

Since 1983, nearly half of all public transportation funding has been provided from the federal motor fuels tax dedicated to the Highway Trust Fund. This funding structure has successfully provided highway and transit programs with secure, dedicated revenues and has allowed public transit systems around the country to create jobs and foster economic growth.

Under the proposed change, public transit funding would receive a one-time appropriation with no funding for public transportation after 2016. This would create deep uncertainty for Salem-Keizer Transit’s future.

“H.R. 3864 will eliminate dedicated federal fuels taxes for public transit,” said Allan Pollock, Salem-Keizer Transit General Manager. “This change will make it very difficult for us to plan for the future. Instead of creating jobs and encouraging economic growth, we will be forced to contend each year with a deeply divided Congress.”

Public transportation is a proven solution to many of the economic problems facing the United States. For every $1 billion invested, more than 36,000 jobs are created and supported, resulting in nearly $500 million in federal, state, and local tax revenues. For every $1 invested in public transportation, $4 is generated in economic returns.

Salem-Keizer Transit, better known as Cherriots, provides bus service to the Salem-Keizer area with connections to Wilsonville, Woodburn, Silverton, Stayton, Dallas, Grand Ronde and more. All buses are ADA accessible and are equipped with bike racks. All Cherriots services operate Monday through Friday. Additional services include CherryLift ADA service, travel training and park and ride lots. Cherriots Rideshare provides carpool and vanpool matching to commuters at no cost.

News Release from: Cherriots – Salem Keizer Transit

See: Bill Text 112th Congress (2011-2012) H.R.3864.RH PDF

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