Legislative Update, SEPTA's funding crisis; REAL ID update

Rep. Tina Davis April 15, 2025 | 11:54 AM

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Warmest wishes for Easter and Passover

This time of year offers an opportunity for reflection, renewal, and connection. Whether through tradition, time with loved ones, or a moment of rest, may this season bring peace, gratitude, and a sense of community.

Wishing you a meaningful and restful holiday season.

Helping route SEPTA funding

I wanted to reach out personally to share my deep concerns regarding SEPTA’s recently proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Operating Budget, which includes the elimination of the Trenton Regional Rail Line and key bus routes that serve our community in Lower Bucks County.

These proposed cuts are deeply troubling. If implemented, they would significantly impact residents in Levittown, Bristol, and Croydon who rely on SEPTA to get to work, school, medical appointments, and other essential destinations. The Trenton Line, in particular, is not only heavily used — it’s actually a profitable route. Eliminating it would severely limit access and opportunity for thousands of daily commuters.

In addition to rail cuts, SEPTA is also proposing to eliminate Bus Routes 127 and 128, leaving only Route 129 to serve the area. These changes come as SEPTA faces a $213 million structural deficit in FY 2026 due to rising costs and the end of federal COVID relief funds. Without new funding, the agency warns it may be forced to eliminate five Regional Rail lines, cut 50 bus routes, impose a 9 p.m. curfew on rail service, and raise fares by an average of 21.5%.

A fare hike of that magnitude would hit our most vulnerable residents the hardest — people who might not have other transportation options and are already stretching their budgets just to get by. Public transit should remain accessible and affordable for everyone.

What makes this proposal even more frustrating is the recent investment of tens of millions in our local stations: $36 million to reconstruct Levittown-Tullytown Station in 2019 and $30 million currently being invested in renovating Bristol Station. These taxpayer-supported projects were meant to improve and expand service, not be followed by drastic cuts. It raises serious questions about long-term planning and priorities.

I fully support Gov. Shapiro’s proposed statewide funding plan to stabilize SEPTA’s finances, and I’m proud that the House has passed related legislation multiple times. We need the Senate to join these efforts so we can protect critical transit services and ensure long-term sustainability.

We can’t afford to move backward — not when so many in our region depend on SEPTA every single day. Reducing service on well-used, productive lines isn’t the answer. We need thoughtful, sustainable solutions that reflect the essential role public transit plays in our economy, our environment, and our everyday lives.

I will continue advocating for a transportation system that works for all Pennsylvanians.

A REAL opportunity

To help you get ready for the May 7 federal REAL ID enforcement deadline, PennDOT is offering REAL ID Mondays:

Bensalem Driver License Center (4201 Neshaminy Blvd.) will be open for special hours:

8:30 a.m.-4:15 p.m., Monday, April 28
8:30 a.m.-4:15 p.m., Monday, May 5

In addition to these special dates, you can also apply for a REAL ID during the center’s regular business hours.

A REAL ID is optional, but starting May 7, it will be required to:

Board domestic flights
Enter military bases
Access certain federal facilities

It is important to note that May 7 is not a deadline to have a REAL ID in hand, but rather the date when enforcement begins. For individuals who do not plan to fly or enter a federal facility soon after May 7, or have a passport, obtaining a REAL ID may not be immediately necessary.

For more information about REAL ID, required documents, alternatives, or additional locations, visit: https://www.pa.gov/services/dmv/apply-for-real-id.html.

Celebrate Earth Day with a volunteer cleanup

In collaboration with the Bristol Township Environmental Advisory Committee, the Silver Lake Nature Center is hosting a Volunteer Cleanup event in honor of Earth Day. Community members are invited to participate and help care for the local environment.

Participants should be prepared to get wet and dirty and are encouraged to bring a refillable water bottle. This event will take place rain or shine.

Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for the duration of the event. No exceptions.

An RSVP is required, please click here to do so.

Developing a stronger economy in Pennsylvania

At a time when federal tariffs are creating economic uncertainty and increasing costs for families and employers, it’s encouraging to see Gov. Shapiro remain focused on real economic opportunity. Through the Main Street Matters initiative, his administration is making targeted investments to support small businesses, strengthen local economies, and improve community infrastructure.

The Governor secured $20 million in the 2024-25 bipartisan budget for this program, which is funding 81 projects across the Commonwealth. These efforts are helping to revitalize downtown areas, restore historic properties, and improve public spaces — all of which contribute to long-term economic stability and local job growth.

While federal policies are driving up costs, Pennsylvania is taking steps to reduce barriers, support entrepreneurs, and provide practical tools for economic development. I appreciate the Governor’s continued focus on delivering results and supporting the people and businesses that make up the backbone of our communities.

Shred Event scheduled for Saturday, April 26

Protecting yourself against identity theft is important, and a great way to do that is by securely shredding your personal documents. Here’s a chance to do just that.

Join me for a Free Shredding Event from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 26 at Ben Franklin Middle School, located at 6403 Mill Creek Road, Levittown. Please note, this is a different location than our previous events.

To participate, please RSVP by calling me at (267) 580-2660 or emailing RepDavis@pahouse.net. There’s a limit of five boxes or bags per person, so please plan accordingly.

Also, if you’d like to help support local food pantries, feel free to bring non-perishable food items for donation.

I look forward to seeing you there and helping you protect your personal information.

My Office Can Help You

SEPTA Key Senior ID Card photos and applications.
Car registrations, special tags, disability placards, titles, and driver’s license applications.
Information on financial assistance for higher education.
Obtaining and completing state forms.
Unemployment compensation.
Troubleshooting issues or delays with Department of Human Services (food, medical and income assistance).
PA state income tax questions or problems.
Complaints or issues with insurance companies.
Renewal of state-issued licenses or certifications.
Property Tax/Rent Rebate forms for qualifying seniors, widows and widowers, and people with disabilities.
PACE prescription cards for seniors.
Liquor Control Board concerns and questions.
Citations honoring local people for outstanding accomplishments or family milestones.
Information about any state or local government agency.
Answers to questions about the Veterans Property Tax Exemption.
Information about our local communities.