SB572 - I Support Transit, Do You?
On Wednesday July 11, 2007 transit advocates from Northeastern Illinois including CNT, Illinois PIRG, Metro Seniors In Action, the Transit Riders Alliance and Progressive Public Affairs traveled to Springfield to lobby in support of SB572. Those in attendance spoke with 20 Senators and 25 Representatives, and while few are opposed to the bill, many were not aware of all of its components. Like everything else in Springfield, transit has taken a backseat to the budget and has not received the attention it is due.
Although the Governor has promised to veto any sales tax increase that has not deterred legislators from supporting the bill. They applaud the fact that it is a long-term regional solution to a regional problem, rather than another band-aid. Additional amendments are expected to include CTA pension and health care reform, RTA governance and a downstate transit component. Transit advocates from various groups will continue to travel to Springfield to raise awareness about SB572, stressing the urgency of addressing the transit crisis this session.
Stay tuned for information on the next lobby day!