Last Thursday, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a historic $590 million loan to Bay Area transit agencies, providing a clear path forward for transit in the area. The next step will come in November of this year, when voters must choose: approve a regional transportation sales tax to fund the agencies or accept massive cuts, including up to 15 closed BART stations and trains not running after 9 p.m.

SEIU Local 1021 BART Chapter Vice President Ray Fields spoke at the press conference announcing the signing: “Protecting jobs and building thriving communities is why SEIU members led the fight to sustain Bay Area transit in the short term and why we will keep fighting to strengthen these systems for the long haul.

“Our economy depends on affordable and reliable public transit so that millions of people are able to move throughout our urban regions with ease. Our climate goals and the quality of air require us to invest in and support transit systems that reduce air pollution and take cars off the road.

“Working families depend on a strong and affordable transit system. Forty-four percent of BART riders don’t own a vehicle. They depend on accessible, affordable, and reliable transit. SEIU members are truly grateful to the leaders who championed this critical investment in today’s jobs and a strong future for Bay Area communities that rely on strong transit systems.”

SEIU 1021 President Theresa Rutherford said, “SEIU members operate transit lines and keep them safe and moving for our communities. Many SEIU members also count on public transportation to get to work, shop, and get our kids to school safely.

“We are proud that by coming together to fight for this investment, we’ve helped working people get to the jobs that put food on the table, seniors can get to their doctors’ appointments, and college students can make it to class. What’s good for workers is good for California.” 

The bill the governor signed was championed by elected officials including Assembly Member Liz Ortega, State Senator Jesse Arreguín, Senate President pro tem Monique Limón, Speaker Rivas, Senate Budget Committee Chair John Laird, and Chair Emeritus Scott Weiner. It was fought for by union members in SEIU 1021, ATU 1555, AFSCME, and others, with strong support from riders, rider advocacy groups, and businesses, because all of us win when public transit is strong and accessible.