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Bill > HB2963


IL HB2963

IL HB2963
METRO & REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTH


summary

Introduced
02/06/2025
In Committee
03/21/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

Potential new amendment
104th General Assembly

Bill Summary

Creates the Road Usage Charge Act. Establishes the Road Usage Charge Advisory Committee to guide the development and evaluation of the road usage charge pilot program and to assess the potential for mileage-based revenue as an alternative to the current system of taxing highway use through motor fuel taxes. Sets forth the membership and duties of the committee. Requires the Department of Transportation, in consultation with the Secretary of State and based on the recommendations of the Committee, to implement a statewide pilot program by January 1, 2026 to assess a user fee on owners of motor vehicles that is based on the number of miles traveled on public roadways in this State by those vehicles. Amends the Metropolitan Transit Authority Act. Provides that, on and after February 1, 2026, the Chicago Transit Board shall have 8 members (currently 7 members). Makes changes to the number of affirmative votes by Directors required to issue bonds. Amends the Regional Transportation Authority Act. Provides that the Annual Budget and 2-Year Financial Plan must show that the aggregate of all projected fare revenues from fares and charges for mass transportation provided by, or under grant or purchase of service contracts of, the Service Boards received in fiscal years 2026 and 2027 shall equal at least 25%, and in fiscal years 2028 and 2029 and every year thereafter at least 15%, of the aggregate cost of providing such public transportation in those fiscal years. Provides that, beginning July 1, 2026, the Regional Transportation Authority shall be the sole agency responsible for the management and oversight of the fare collection systems used on all public transportation provided by the Service Boards. Makes changes to the membership of the Suburban Bus Board and the Commuter Rail Board. Makes changes to the number of affirmative votes required by the Directors of the Authority to approve decisions regarding the strategic plan, coordination of fares and service, appointment of officers and employees, paratransit services, powers of the Commuter Rail Board, labor, budget, taxes, distribution of revenues, issuing and pledging bonds and notes, budget review powers, the annual capital improvement plan, and rate protection contracts. Makes other changes. Effective January 1, 2026.

AI Summary

This bill establishes the Illinois Road Usage Charge Act, which creates a pilot program to explore alternative funding methods for transportation infrastructure. The program will assess a user fee on vehicle owners based on miles traveled on public roadways, with the goal of potentially replacing the current motor fuel tax system. The Road Usage Charge Advisory Committee will guide the development of the pilot program, which must include at least 1,000 motor vehicles and analyze various data collection methods, privacy protections, and technological approaches. The bill also makes significant changes to the Metropolitan Transit Authority Act and the Regional Transportation Authority Act, including modifications to the governance structures of the Chicago Transit Board, Suburban Bus Board, and Commuter Rail Board. Key changes include: 1. Expanding the Chicago Transit Board from 7 to 8 members beginning February 1, 2026 2. Adjusting board membership to include representatives of organized labor, senior advocacy, and disability rights 3. Modifying voting requirements for various board actions 4. Establishing new requirements for fare collection systems, including creating a universal fare instrument 5. Implementing an income-based reduced fare program and fare-capping 6. Creating a Transit Ambassador Program to provide rider assistance and improve transit experience 7. Establishing new reporting and accountability measures for the Authority and Service Boards The bill requires the development of a comprehensive metropolitan region transit plan by July 1, 2027, which will evaluate existing governance, funding, and coordination processes. The changes are designed to improve public transportation services, increase transparency, and enhance rider experience across the metropolitan region. The bill takes effect on January 1, 2026.

Committee Categories

Transportation and Infrastructure

Sponsors (3)

Last Action

Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. Hoan Huynh (on 05/09/2025)

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