Support Public Transit
Protect Your Job and Strengthen Your Union - Fight Back Against High Gas Prices
The high cost of fuel has been a double-edged sword for the transit industry. While ridership has surged, transit agencies, which are running at capacity, are also being squeezed by the increased cost of diesel fuel.
With a massive number of commuters switching from driving to transit as the price of gasoline climbs towards five dollars per gallon, and perhaps beyond, transit service should be expanding and ATU membership should be growing in size as a result.
However, the opposite is happening. Due to the increased price of diesel fuel, layoffs and service cuts are occurring at transit systems throughout the United States. ATU members can help turn this situation around by urging their U.S. Senators to pass legislation that would provide fuel subsidies to transit agencies.
We must act fast! The Senate will only be in session for a limited number of days between now and the end of the year.
Tell me more
Dear [ Decision Maker ],
(Edit Letter Below)
This bill would provide the resources to help my transit system cope with the huge influx of new riders that we have seen since gas prices started skyrocketing.
Ironically, while high gas prices are encouraging more people to ride transit, rising diesel prices are also causing public transit systems nationwide to raise fares, cut service, lay off staff, and delay capital spending. Like other consumers, the transit agencies are also paying more for fuel - 44% more this year than last. Therefore, at a time when demand for buses and trains is at one of its highest points in history, we have agencies cutting back service. Transit needs to be part of the solution - not the victim - of high gas prices.
Between the price of fuel, food, and health care, working families are getting squeezed like never before. People are looking to transit for relief. The last thing they need are fare increases and service cuts to make their lives more difficult. Please support and work for passage of the Saving Energy Through Public Transportation Act of 2008.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your address]
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