SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS (April 15, 2025) — As one of the largest business organizations in the State — representing over 3,000 employers of every size, sector, and industry — the Illinois Chamber of Commerce has heard from our members on this issue loudly and clearly: real reform and real solutions are necessary now to achieve mass transit-reform; and address the looming $770 million funding cliff. Our members, both big and small, and from every corner of the state, have been deeply interested in this public policy challenge, both for its budgetary implications and impact on transportation. The Chamber applauds the efforts of our legislative leaders in the Illinois House and Senate that have boldly advocated for transparency, accountability, and collaboration throughout a series of legislative hearings on mass transit.
As the conversations continue to evolve over the next few weeks and months of legislative session, we encourage our leaders in Springfield to consider the Illinois Chamber's Ten Business Principles of Mass Transit Reform. Together, these ten principles for mass transit reform represent essential components that must be addressed before any consideration of new or enhanced revenues are to be considered.
The Illinois Chamber’s recommendations include:
#1 The looming fiscal cliff and proposed transformational funding levels must be addressed by first demonstrating real and substantial reform and cost efficiencies prior to asking more of Illinois businesses and working families
#2 The governance structure of the future must contain strong oversight authority over subordinate systems
#3 The ridership experience must be front and center in a new or reformed governance structure to restore trust in public safety, reliability, and accessibility in our mass transit systems
#4 The Illinois business community must have a voice in the mass transit governance process
#5 Transparency and clear, effective communication will improve community and business relations
To view the full report, click here.
“We are at a critical juncture in terms of transit funding in Illinois,” said Lou Sandoval, President and CEO of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce. “Our state’s economy relies on a reliable, safe, modern, and efficient transit system that provides access to jobs, services, and opportunities. The Illinois Chamber’s guidance offers a balanced, forward-thinking approach to ensuring our transit systems remain sustainable and capable of meeting the needs of Illinois businesses, workers, and the working families they support for years to come.”
The Illinois Chamber of Commerce urges lawmakers and stakeholders to engage in a meaningful dialogue about these proposals and work with the business community to find actionable solutions that support the state’s transit infrastructure, create jobs, and enhance economic growth.
For more information about the Illinois Chamber of Commerce and its recommendations on transit funding, please visit ILChamber.org.
