U.S. Senator Mike Rounds introduced the Investments in Rural Transit Act on Mar. 17, legislation aimed at helping rural transit providers improve their services for communities across the country.
The proposed bill is intended to address challenges faced by rural residents who rely on public transportation for essential needs such as work, school, and medical appointments. For many in rural areas, transit services are a critical resource due to limited access to personal vehicles.
“For rural South Dakotans who do not own a vehicle, transit services are a lifeline to reach their jobs, medical appointments, grocery stores and other necessities,” said Rounds. “This legislation aims to support the operators who provide these essential services, so that they may continue to get our rural residents where they need to go.”
Barbara Cline, Executive Director of Prairie Hills Transit, said: “South Dakota’s public transit providers face significant issues including Federal funding shortfalls, reduced local match, and lack of regulatory reform. Public transit serves all citizens including workers, students, seniors, and individuals accessing medical care. We support the Investments in Rural Transit Act that allows continued access, independence, and economic participation across our communities.”
Senators Tina Smith and Tammy Baldwin joined Rounds in introducing the bipartisan legislation. Smith said: “High-quality, efficient public transit systems are important for Minnesotans who rely on them every day to get to the office, school, the doctor, and to make their lives work. This bipartisan legislation would support reliable public transit in rural communities where it’s a lifeline.” Baldwin added: “Whether you are in a big city or a rural part of our state, every Wisconsinite should have access to good public transit. Unfortunately, that is just not the case in too many places and limited transit options are a significant barrier for folks trying to get to work, the store, or the doctor. Our bipartisan legislation will invest in rural communities so workers and families are better connected to what they need.”
The Investments in Rural Transit Act proposes several changes: increasing federal funding for operating costs from 50 percent up to 80 percent; directing federal agencies to recommend regulatory relief; making procurement easier through joint purchasing; streamlining low- and no-emission vehicle infrastructure acquisition; and supporting Tribal transit agencies with new administrative roles.
Rounds has served as U.S. Senator for South Dakota since Jan. 6, 2015 according to his official website. He represents South Dakota with offices located throughout the state as well as Washington D.C., holds membership on committees such as Appropriations and Armed Services according to his official website.
