South Central Transit Received 1st Quarter Payment from the State
South Central Transit is ecstatic to announce that the 1st Quarter payment from the State of Illinois was received December 8th. SCT will be able to continue services for 2-3 more months and there will not be any lay-off of employees.
The state makes operating assistance payments to downstate public transportation systems on a quarterly basis through the Downstate Public Transportation Fund, which is funded through transfers from the General Revenue Fund. Public transportation began fiscal year 2017 on July 1st.
Per state statute (30 ILCS 740), Illinois provides 65% reimbursement of operating expenses for South Central Transit and other downstate Illinois public transportation systems. Per state statute, Illinois is legally bound to provide this funding as a continuing appropriation whether the legislature appropriates sufficient funds or not. However, there had not been any funds transferred to the Downstate Public Transportation Fund until a few days ago.
There has not been any talk or announcements made of when the 2nd quarter payments may be received.
We so much appreciate those who have taken the time to call our State Leaders to let them know how important public transportation is to southern Illinois. Your support has made a huge difference. Thank you!!! Let’s keep reminding them of the importance of public transportation so they don’t forget.
