Texas Transit Association

The American Public Transportation Association (”APTA”:http://www.apta.com/) reports that while Congress returned from its recess this week, progress towards a conference on the House and Senate reauthorization bills did not take place. Latest indications are that Congressional Leadership and the White House have agreed to go to conference only after agreement is reached on an overall acceptable funding level. As this has not yet occurred and with the current short-term extension of TEA 21 expiring April 30, Congress is expected to pass a third extension that will likely continue the federal transit programs for two months.

The American Public Transportation Association (”APTA”:http://www.apta.com/) reports that while Congress returned from its recess this week, progress towards a conference on the House and Senate reauthorization bills did not take place. Latest indications are that Congressional Leadership and the White House have agreed to go to conference only after agreement is reached on an overall acceptable funding level. As this has not yet occurred and with the current short-term extension of TEA 21 expiring April 30, Congress is expected to pass a third extension that will likely continue the federal transit programs for two months.

… but no conferees for the *transportation reauthorization* House-Senate Conference Committee to work out differences have been appointed. Congress returns from its recess next week (week of April 19). The current short-term extension of TEA 21 expires at the end of April and will have to be extended. It appears that May is the month of focus for the conference.

*Transit Security* also on the table: APTA has asked that $2 billion for transit security ($1.2 billion for capital needs and $800 million for operating costs) be inserted in the FY 2005 transportation budget. Additionally, the Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on the Railroad Carriers and Mass Transportation Protection Act of 2004 on April 8. This hearing focused on S. 2273, a bill that would establish various acts against railroads and transit systems as federal crimes that would qualify for terrorism charges.

Special Session of the Legislature to begin April 20. The have been tasked by the Governor to enact school property tax relief and addressing education equity and funding issues. Special Sessions are limited to a 30-day period.

The Governor’s press release:
Download file

Provided by American Public Transportation Association (APTA). Access the .pdf file “here”:http://apta.com/government_affairs/positions/washrep/2004april2charts.cfm.

Vote on Friday, April 2 likely with re-arranged fiscal components. Texas to benefit.
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