Health & Fitness
A YES on Amendment 7 is a YES for TRANSIT in MO
For the first time in Missouri history, Amendment 7 would provide state funds dedicated to public transit. The Missouri General Assembly passed HJR 68, moving Amendment 7 to the ballot this August and ultimately allowing Missouri voters the opportunity to determine if Missouri state transportation funding can be used for transit, bicycling, walking and other Missouri transportation needs. If it passes, three-fourths of a one percent increase in Missouri’s sales tax would be dedicated to the improvement of priority transportation projects in each region.
Amendment 7 would allow municipalities to direct their funds to local priorities. In many communities statewide, it would provide new public transit funding to increase access and options for Missourians who don’t drive or don’t have access to a car. In the St. Louis region, it would equate to millions in public transit projects over 10 years, including a new light rail station in the City of St. Louis, studies for future light rail extensions, streetcars, bus rapid transit and other transit improvements.
While not everyone will agree a sales tax is the right mechanism, the tax reflects the current political reality in Missouri. Funds from this tax cannot be diverted to anything other than transportation. Necessity goods are exempt, including groceries, medicine and fuel. In addition, this tax would allow Missouri to significantly increase funding to public transit in rural and urban areas, an option that is not allowed under the current Missouri gas tax.
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Presently, Missouri ranks near the bottom nationally with regards to state funding support for transit. Last year, Metro received less than $400,000 in state funds for the operation of a $250 million budget. The region cannot continue to compete for federal funds without providing state funding for transit.
Amendment 7 offers voters the critical opportunity to support a dedicated funding stream for transit projects in Missouri. Please consider Missouri's public transit needs and vote YES on Amendment 7 on August 5.