Michael Hankinson – 6/24/07

This page was last updated on July 1, 2007.

Address mass transit needs; Michael Hankinson, PennEnvironment; Beaver County Times; June 24, 2007.

This is at least the second letter from PennEnvironment since December lobbying for more taxpayer handouts for riders of government-owned bus/train systems.

Below is a detailed critique of the letter.

“In less than two weeks, the Legislature is expected to break for the summer, placing any unsolved issues on hold until the fall.

“Thus, it is imperative that the legislature acts now to approve a sustained, long-term funding solution for the Beaver County Transit Authority and the rest of the state’s public transportation systems.

“Not only is the continued support of public transportation critical to the 65,000 children who require daily transportation to school, but it is also crucial to the health and welfare of our citizens.”

[RWC] Ah yes, when all else fails, claim your position is “for the children.” Though the letter didn’t play the “Do it for the seniors.” card, it does play the “Do it for asthma sufferers.” card.

Watch out when people use the term “public transportation.” Though these folks really mean things like the BCTA, PAT, SEPTA, et cetera, they occasionally refer to roads and bridges as “public transportation” to confuse the issue and garner support they wouldn’t get otherwise.

“Each year, smog pollution triggers 300,000 asthma attacks in Pennsylvania alone, and our cars and trucks are big contributors to this problem.

“Thankfully, a group of people using public transportation produces about 90 percent less volatile organic compounds - a key component in the creation of smog - than the same number of people driving individual cars.

“But without immediate action to secure funding before the legislature adjourns, we are certain to face significant public transportation service cutbacks and fare hikes, forcing more people back into their cars and trucks.

“This would only further increase smog levels and respiratory ailments. PennEnvironment urges citizens to contact their state legislators and call on them to act now to fund the state’s public transportation systems.”

[RWC] I have a recommended “secure funding” source and I believe every bus already has one. It’s called the fare box.

There’s nothing pro-environment about throwing taxpayer dollars at failing businesses.