Transportation Bill Passes House, Despite DFL Opposition

Rep. Frank Hornstein (DFL-Minneapolis) and other DFLers argued against the Republican transportation bill Monday, but failed to persuade their Republican colleagues to vote against it. The transportation bill passed the House 70-60, mostly along party lines.

The Republican bill reduces transit funds $129.78 million in the Twin Cities in the next two years. It also chips $7.62 million from Greater Minnesota transit systems, according to House research. Republican efforts to redirect local sales tax dedicated to transit from urban areas would likely impact light rail projects, bus fares and bus service in the metropolitan area.

Hornstein said the bill would result in layoffs of bus drivers, as well as construction and maintenance workers who build the state's roads and bridges. House Minority Leader Paul Thissen said the bill is "another pothole on Minnesota’s road to economic recovery."

Hornstein also proposed an amendment to the transportation bill to cut money for suburban transit operations that he said "are sitting on incredible reserves," although the amendment failed 59-73.

A recent Legislative Auditor's report showed four suburban bus companies holding reserves 100 percent or greater than their operating expenses (see PDF or full text). 

The transportation bill's Senate companion is still being heard. Even if it passes the Senate, the bill must then face Gov. Mark Dayton, who has opposed it.