Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7774

Introduced

2/28/24

Refer

2/28/24

Caption

JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $78,000,000 TO THE RHODE ISLAND TRANSIT AUTHORITY (RIPTA) (This resolution would authorize the appropriation of the sum of $78,000,000 to the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority.)

Impact

H7774 aims to support critical initiatives such as hiring and training new bus operators by raising wages and benefits to meet the demands of the current economic climate. Furthermore, $46 million of the total appropriation is designated for implementing a Transit Master Plan, aligning with Rhode Island's Act on Climate goals. The proposed financial support is seen as essential not just for retaining RIPTA's current operational capabilities, but also for enabling future growth and service development across the state.

Summary

House Bill H7774 proposes a significant appropriation of $78 million to the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA). This funding is intended to address a projected deficit stemming from the state’s fiscal budget for 2024-2025, which currently allocates only $10 million for RIPTA operations. The bill underscores the vital role of public transportation in improving community connectivity, job creation, and environmental sustainability. Acknowledging the impact of inadequately funded transit services, the bill seeks to invest in necessary operational improvements and expansions.

Contention

The discussion surrounding H7774 may highlight differing perspectives on state budgeting priorities, especially in the context of public transportation funding. Some legislators may argue that without this appropriation, many Rhode Islanders would face a loss of essential services, exacerbating existing workforce challenges. Conversely, concerns may arise regarding budgetary constraints and the potential for competing state needs, leading to debates about the best use of fiscal resources in ensuring a balanced approach towards public service funding.

Latest H7774 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6124

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $2,000,000 To The Rhode Island Food Bank (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $2,000,000 To The Rhode Island Community Food Bank.)

RI H6243

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $738,088 To Rhode Island College (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $738,088 To Rhode Island College To Fund Rhode Island College Hsi Status And Student Supports.)

RI S0774

RI H5405

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $200,000 To The Brain Injury Association Of Rhode Island (biari) (this Joint Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $200,000 To The Brian Injury Association Of Rhode Island (biari).)

RI S0991

Rhode Island Public Transit Authority

RI S0260

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of Approximately $30,000,000 To Rhode Island's Public Schools For Safety And Security Improvements (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $100,000 To Each Public School In Rhode Island For School Safety And Security Improvements.)

RI H5817

RI S0984

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $3,000,000 To Rhode Island College For The Rhode Island Vision Education And Services Program (rivesp) (authorizes The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $3,000,000 To Rhode Island College For The Rhode Island Vision Education And Services Program.)