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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: PLEASE CONTACT:
October 6, 2006 Michael Bloom (617.722.1650)

Senator Barrios to Testify at MBTA Board of Directors Meeting

Boston – State Senator Jarrett Barrios testified against the MBTA’s proposal to raise fares and supports increasing state money for homeland and rail security at the MBTA’s Board of Directors meeting yesterday.

“T Riders should not have to bare the burden of paying for increased security alone” declared Senator Barrios, Chairman of the Public Safety and Homeland Security committee. “The Commonwealth pays for security at our airports and this should be no different.”

The Public Safety and Homeland Security committee released a report a month ago detailing significant gaps in the MBTA’s security which is partly due to an $8 billion budget deficit. The MBTA’s budget is strained because a considerable portion goes to MBTA police officer salaries.

Senator Barrios proposed filing legislation next year which assists in funding homeland security and rail security efforts outside of the current funding formula. This would alleviate the burden on the MBTA budget, increase security by hiring additional officers, and lighten pressure on the MBTA board to raise fares.

Several years ago, the Legislature decided the budget for the MBTA would be comprised of a penny from every sales tax transaction and fares from subways and buses. The budget created from this formula would pay for everything from repairs on trains to the MBTA police force. Over the last few years, sales tax receipts and ridership on the T have significantly declined, leaving the MBTA with a massive deficit. To compensate, the MBTA raised fares and is contemplating raising fares next year.

last updated 06-Oct-2006 04:01 PM

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