CHICAGO — Senate Transportation Committee Chair Ram Villivalam held a subject matter hearing Tuesday to hear from advocates and stakeholders about two pieces of legislation that would make changes to governance and address issues riders face.

“Given persistent delays and service gaps that riders face, it is important that we prioritize improvements to our public transit system,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Today, we had the opportunity to hear from advocates and stakeholders about measures that would provide reliable, affordable, safe and coordinated transit to our region.”

Across the Regional Transit Authority region, public transit is expected to hit a $771 million fiscal cliff in 2026 as federal funding through the American Rescue Plan Act is slated to end. In the last year, Villivalam has held subject matter hearings across Chicago and the suburbs to discuss the current state of public transit in relation to supporting the economy, accessibility and equity, and public health.

“Residents in my district and across Illinois rely on public transportation every single day,” said State Senator Mike Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “Creating efficient, accessible and safe transportation networks must be a priority for our state.”

To continue discussions about challenges riders face in the RTA region, Tuesday’s hearing covered Senate Bill 5 and Senate Bill 1938, which are sponsored by Villivalam.

Senate Bill 5 would combine the Regional Transit Authority, Chicago Transit Authority, Metra and PACE into one entity referred to as the Metropolitan Mobility Authority, as well as outline its responsibilities for public transit in the region.

"For many, it's not just a convenience—it's a lifeline. In every corner of Illinois, reliable, safe, and efficient transit empowers people to thrive, strengthens our economy, and reduces our environmental impact,” said State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago). “It's not just a local issue – it’s a statewide priority that impacts the well-being of every Illinois resident."

Senate Bill 1938 would make changes to public transit that would provide improved service board coordination and accountability measures, coordinated safety measures, agency interconnection and a universal fare tool, service board composition and other governance changes.

Both measures make reforms to provide riders with better service and streamlined governance through a system that is safe, reliable, accessible, integrated, environmentally conscious, and economically impactful.

Both measures are currently waiting to be heard before the Senate Transportation Committee.