Is public transit facing 'fiscal cliff'? | State headlines

California’s major public transit agencies are facing numerous issues such as decreased ridership, proposed state funding cuts, and a looming “fiscal cliff”. 

The state’s transit systems are vital for low-income individuals, increasing housing density and achieving the state’s goal of significantly reducing carbon emissions. Transit systems are asking California lawmakers to invest in public transportation and allocate new funds to maintain service levels. COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant decrease in public transit ridership, impacting fare box revenue, and most agencies have not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels.