Dear SWTA Members,

One of the greatest strengths of the South West Transit Association has always been our collective voice. When challenges arise that impact public transportation, SWTA stands ready to advocate for our members, our communities, and the riders who depend on us every day.

That commitment is especially important now.

On July 22, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy submitted proposals to Senate leaders as part of the ongoing Surface Transportation Authorization discussions. Among the proposals are recommendations that would eliminate the Mass Transit Account from the Highway Trust Fund and remove advance appropriations—changes that could significantly alter how public transportation is funded across the United States.

These proposals are just one step in the legislative process, but they represent a conversation our industry cannot afford to ignore.

Public transportation is more than infrastructure. It connects people to employment, healthcare, education, shopping, and essential services. It supports local economies, strengthens rural and tribal communities, and improves quality of life for millions of Americans. Stable, predictable federal investment has long been the foundation that allows transit agencies to plan, operate, and grow these critical services.

SWTA firmly believes that dedicated federal funding for public transportation must be preserved.

On behalf of our membership, SWTA is preparing comments and actively engaging with our national partners throughout the surface transportation reauthorization process. We will continue advocating for policies that:

Preserve dedicated federal funding for public transportation and passenger rail.

Protect and strengthen formula grant programs.

Support workforce development and industry growth.

Maintain investments in safety, infrastructure, and innovation.

Ensure rural, small urban, and tribal communities continue to receive the transportation resources they depend upon.

Provide predictable funding that allows agencies to plan confidently for the future.

As Congress continues its work, SWTA will remain engaged, informed, and vocal on behalf of our members. We are committed to ensuring the voices of transit agencies across the Southwest are heard throughout the reauthorization process.

We will continue to share updates as legislative discussions progress and identify opportunities for our members to engage in advocacy efforts when appropriate.

Thank you for everything you do to strengthen public transportation in your communities. Together, we will continue working to protect and advance the future of transit.

Sincerely,

Heather Dalmolin

Executive Director

South West Transit Association (SWTA)