July 20, 2009

SENATOR MICHAEL O. MOORE FILES LEGISLATION SEEKING A STUDY AIMED AT PRODUCING COST SAVINGS FOR REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITIES

BOSTON - Senator Michael O. Moore (D-Millbury) has recognized that despite the recent enactment of transportation reform and as a result of the major economic downturn, Regional Transit Authorities are still struggling to try to provide adequate services.  In an effort to find a solution, Senator Moore is filing legislation which would determine if any savings could be realized by requiring RTA employees to join the Group Insurance Commission.  Additionally, the bill requires a study of how RTA’s currently operate and to examine if any changes may be made which would put RTA’s in a better position to provide more services at a lower cost.  Senator Michael Moore has also requested that similar language is included as part of the larger Municipal Relief bill that is expected to emerge from the Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional government in the near future.

“We have made some necessary reforms to our transportation system, however, because of the unique nature of the regional transit authorities, we need to take a closer look at how they operate to determine whether any changes should be made,” said Moore. “The RTA’s offer an invaluable service to the residents who rely on them and we must explore any available options to address those needs in the most cost effective manner possible,” said Senator Moore.

“Senator Moore has held to his word that he would review all ways in which costs for regional transit authorities could be contained. His effort to study ways in which employees of regional transit authorities could join the state’s group health insurance and operate service is timely as RTA’s seek ways to provide service with scarce resources. Therefore, I wholeheartedly support his efforts”, said Steven O’Neill, Administrator for the Worcester Regional Transit Authority.

"We certainly are open to any cost savings efforts in these difficult times. We applaud the Senator for keeping the focus on the RTA's. Hopefully all of our efforts will increase transit and other green jobs to benefit future generations" said Christopher Bruce, Business Agent for Local # 22 of the Amalgamated Transit Union.

 “Every effort should be made to make the RTA's more cost effective. As our population ages there will be a need for an increase with transportation services. This will allow the elderly to maintain their independence in our communities,” said Judith O'Connor, Executive Director, Millbury Council on Aging.

The bill has been filed in the Senate and will be given a bill number and then assigned to a committee for a public hearing.

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