Clark issues advisory on emergency funding for MBTA

The following was submitted by the office of state Senator Katherine Clark, who represents Malden and Melrose:

BOSTON - On Tuesday, the Senate passed an emergency funding package on a 26-9 vote that will help the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) close its budget deficit for the 2012 fiscal year.

“Quality, affordable public transportation is critical to our district and the state’s economy,” said Katherine Clark.  “These measures however will only get us through the end of the fiscal year and now we have to work with MassDOT to develop a comprehensive plan for the Commonwealth’s transportation needs.”

The bill requires the Registry of Motor Vehicles to transfer $51 million in vehicle inspection fees to the Massachusetts Transportation Fund and distribute $2 million to Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs) and $49 million to the MBTA. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) must also transfer $1.5 million in surplus from its snow and ice budget to the RTAs.

The legislation also increases fare evasion penalties to $75 for the first offense, $200 for the second offense, and $350 for each subsequent offense. According to the bill, if a fine is not paid within 21 days, the violator’s driver’s license will be suspended until it is paid.

Additionally, the bill authorizes the MBTA and RTAs to share information with the Executive Office of Health and Human Services so that the RIDE program might be eligible for MassHealth federal reimbursement.

Finally, the legislation requires the board of MassDOT to develop a long-term transportation financing plan for the state by December 31, 2012. And it requires MassDOT to issue a report on the estimated cost of restoring weekend service on the Old Colony commuter rail line.