HR 68 — A Resolution directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study and issue a report on the current status, management and implementation of mass or public transit in Pennsylvania's rural communities.

PRINTER'S NO.   546

                  THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF PENNSYLVANIA



           HOUSE RESOLUTION
              No. 68
                                              Session of
                                                2025

     INTRODUCED BY STRUZZI, PICKETT, REICHARD, SAPPEY AND SMITH,
        FEBRUARY 10, 2025

     REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION, FEBRUARY 10, 2025


                               A RESOLUTION
 1   Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to
 2      conduct a study and issue a report on the current status,
 3      management and implementation of mass or public transit in
 4      Pennsylvania's rural communities.
 5      WHEREAS, Access to efficient and reliable transportation is
 6   essential for the economic, social and environmental well-being
 7   of all communities; and
 8      WHEREAS, Rural communities in this Commonwealth often face
 9   unique challenges in providing adequate transportation options
10   due to their dispersed populations, limited infrastructure and
11   geographical constraints; and
12      WHEREAS, Both the legislative and the executive branches play
13   a crucial role in shaping the transportation landscape of this
14   Commonwealth and have the responsibility to ensure equitable
15   access to transportation services for all residents, including
16   residents in rural areas; and
17      WHEREAS, Investing in and improving mass or public transit
18   systems in rural communities can enhance mobility, stimulate
19   economic growth, reduce traffic congestion, enhance
 1   environmental sustainability and improve overall quality of
 2   life; and
 3      WHEREAS, A comprehensive study specifically focusing on mass
 4   or public transit options in rural communities will provide
 5   valuable insights into the transportation needs, challenges and
 6   opportunities in these areas and inform future policy and
 7   investment decisions; and
 8      WHEREAS, By conducting a study on mass or public transit in
 9   rural communities, the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee
10   can gather data, evaluate existing transportation services,
11   identify gaps and deficiencies, explore innovative solutions and
12   recommend strategies to improve access to affordable and
13   efficient transit options for rural residents; therefore be it
14      RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives direct the
15   Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to undertake a
16   comprehensive study on mass or public transit in Pennsylvania's
17   rural communities; and be it further
18      RESOLVED, That the study:
19          (1)     Assess the existing transportation infrastructure,
20      including road networks, bridges and mass or public transit
21      services, in rural communities across this Commonwealth.
22          (2)     Identify the transportation needs, challenges and
23      priorities of rural residents, considering factors, including
24      employment, education, health care and access to essential
25      services.
26          (3)     Evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of
27      various mass or public transit options, including bus
28      services, ride-sharing programs, on-demand services and
29      innovative solutions using emerging technologies.
30          (4)     Examine successful models and best practices

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 1      implemented in other states to address transportation
 2      challenges in rural areas.
 3          (5)    Engage with local communities, stakeholders,
 4      leaders, transportation experts and other relevant entities
 5      to gather input, feedback and insights throughout the study
 6      process.
 7          (6)    Develop a comprehensive set of recommendations and
 8      strategies to enhance mass or public transit options in rural
 9      communities, considering cost-effectiveness, environmental
10      impact and long-term sustainability;
11   and be it further
12      RESOLVED, That the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee
13   prepare a report of its findings and recommendations and submit
14   the report to the House of Representatives no later than 12
15   months after the adoption of this resolution.




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