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The Governor released his May Revise for the 08 / 09 budget and the news is not good for transit.  With ridership surging, the Governor has responded by, once again, cutting transit funding.  If the budget moves through as proposed, the result for transit agencies throughout the State, including Sacramento Regional Transit (RT), will likely be another round of service cuts, route eliminations, job loss and an inability to move ahead with many Capital projects. 

As it currently stands, the Governor’s 08 / 09 budget proposal will result in an expected loss of $18 million in transit funds to RT.  This represents a 12% reduction in RT’s proposed operating budget and comes on the heels of a $14 million loss in the current budget year.  The current year loss resulted in a 5% cut in transit services this past January.  These cuts were in addition to RT hiring freezes (over 100 positions), travel restrictions and no cost of living increases for management and administrative staff. 

With the recent increase in gas prices, RT has seen record ridership figures in 2008.  At a time when more people are looking to transit, many people feel that RT should be adding service, not eliminating it. 

The State Assembly and Senate will be debating the budget over the next several weeks.  Those wishing to express an opinion may do so by contacting their state elected officials and the Governor.  As a public service and informational tool, RT is providing the following "Budget Impact Links" to assist you.  There’s a budget fact sheet and a sample letter that can be used to assist riders.

Budget Impact Links: