The PennZone

HARRISBURG, Pa., Aug. 13, 2025 ~ In a joint statement released today, representatives from three major unions expressed their concerns over the current budget shortfall facing the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA). Bill Hamilton, President of the Pennsylvania Conference of Teamsters; Jeff Joines, Director of Government Affairs for the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes; and Don Hill, General Chairman of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen – all voiced their worries about the potential impact on both SEPTA workers and passengers if the issue is not resolved soon.

The Teamsters alone represent hundreds of SEPTA workers and tens of thousands of union members who rely on the transportation system to commute to work every day. According to Hamilton, if Pennsylvania State Senators do not address the $213 million budget shortfall by tomorrow, millions of passengers could face severe service cuts in just twelve days.

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The unions emphasized that public transportation is not only crucial for the greater Philadelphia area but also for economic prosperity and quality of life throughout the state. They urged lawmakers to put aside political differences and work together to find a solution that benefits all Pennsylvanians.

The unions also pointed out that there is no shortage of ideas for addressing the fiscal cliff currently facing Pennsylvania. Five different bills have already been proposed in the upper chamber, showing that there are various options available. The key, according to Hamilton, is for lawmakers to prioritize finding a solution that not only closes the budget gap but also preserves good union jobs and improves service for passengers.

The statement concluded with a plea for politicians to stop bickering and take action before it's too late. The unions stressed that Pennsylvanians should not have to suffer due to politicians failing to fulfill their responsibilities.

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Their website Teamster.org provides more information about their organization, and they can also be followed on Twitter @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.

For further information, please contact Matt McQuaid at (771) 241-0015.

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