FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Nicole Reigelman House Democratic Communications Office Phone: 717-787-7895 Fax: 717-783-6839 Email: nreigelm@pahouse.net	State Rep. Harold James D-Philadelphia www.pahouse.com/james
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James to re-introduce legislation expanding SEPTA board

HARRISBURG, June 21 – State Rep. Harold James, D-Phila., said he is re-introducing a bill that would add members to the board of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transit Authority. The bill would also give Philadelphia a greater voice on the regional board.

James’ legislation would increase the number of board members from 15 to 18. The additional members would go to Philadelphia.

Currently, the mayor of Philadelphia and commissioners of Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties each appoint two members to the board. The governor and House and Senate majority and minority leaders are authorized to appoint one each.

James pointed out that nearly 90 percent of SEPTA’s ridership is comprised of Philadelphians.

“SEPTA is a piece of critical infrastructure in the lives of thousands of Philadelphians who use it every day,” James said. “As it currently stands, Philadelphians aren’t provided representation on the SEPTA board equal to their usage.”

James said he introduced a similar bill in the previous legislative session.

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