Advocacy Alert: Speak Up for Transit Funding in Missouri!

Overview

• Your advocacy persuaded Missouri leaders to set aside $4.2 million for public transportation this year.
• The Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission is requesting $9 million for FY 2028.
• MRT is joining advocates across the state to speak up for these funds, and we need your help!

It’s no secret that public transportation has struggled in Missouri over the last few years. According to one estimate, Missouri’s per capita spending on transit has dropped from $1.89 to $1.08 in the last year alone. Such cuts place Missouri near the bottom among states that spend money on transit across the country. Moreover, the cuts disproportionately harm rural transit providers that rely on state funding to deliver the services that enable users to get to work, school, medical appointments, and more.

That’s why organizations like Missourians for Responsible Transportation have been pushing for something better. Working alongside groups like Citizens for Modern Transit, MRT advocated during the last Missouri legislative session for more funding to be allocated for public transportation. Thanks to the efforts of people across the Show-Me State, transit providers secured $4.2 million this year!

While that funding is a great accomplishment and will serve as a critical lifeline for rural transit providers especially, the work is far from over. Without continued advocacy, transit funding will likely be in peril again.

With that said, there’s reason for optimism. The Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission (MHTC) has made a formal request for $9 million in public transit operating assistance for the coming fiscal year. Where would these funds come from?

• $5 million in General Revenue
• Increasing the existing $1.7 million in State Transportation Fund (STF) assistance to $2 million
• Adding an additional $2 million from the STF

Governor Mike Kehoe is beginning to develop budget recommendations that he will present to the legislature before they begin their session early next year. That means NOW is a prime opportunity to speak up for more transit funding. MRT is submitting a letter of support (click here to read it) and urging action, but we can’t do this alone. Here’s what you can do:

• Call the Governor's office at 573-751-3222 and urge him to support the MHTC's recommendation.
• Click here to submit comments through the online form on the Governor's website.
• Encourage your friends and fellow transit riders to do the same.

A lot can change in a year’s time, and that has certainly been the case for transit funding in the Show-Me State. While the $4.2 million allocation is a good start and a testament to the efforts of transit advocates across the state, more work needs to be done to preserve and build upon those wins. As MRT continues to speak up for these and other active transportation priorities, we will need the voices of everyday folks like YOU to send a clear message that this needs to be a priority.