California transit agencies seek regional sales tax increase

Voters in several California counties will decide on Senate Bill 63, also known as the Regional Transit Measure, on November 3. If approved, the measure would increase sales tax by 0.5% in Alameda, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, and San Mateo counties, and by 1% in San Francisco for 14 years starting in April 2027. The initiative aims to raise approximately $980 million annually for regional public transit agencies.

Proponents argue the tax is necessary to prevent significant service cuts. BART has warned of potential 70% service reductions and the closure of 15 stations if funding is not secured, while Caltrain anticipates a $75 million deficit in the upcoming fiscal year.

In Santa Clara County, the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) is currently financially stable and does not have immediate plans for service reductions regardless of the vote. However, VTA board chair Sergio Lopez noted that while the agency is stable, the measure would allow for service improvements that would otherwise be impossible.