T4MA embraces a dynamic definition of transportation justice.
For us, it signifies ensuring that everyone enjoys access to safe, reliable accessible, affordable and equitable transportation networks. These systems should seamlessly connect individuals to essential destinations, people and resources — fostering opportunities for residents.
Those most impacted by transportation injustices must hold decision-making authority in shaping policies aimed at achieving and sustaining these objectives. Transportation justice seeks to redress historical injustices stemming from redlining, racism, and discrimination entrenched within our transportation, housing, and political frameworks. It’s about rectifying past harm and forging a future where transportation truly serves everyone.
We advocate together as a coalition, and you can also directly contact your legislator.
Consistent with our recommendations in Funding Our Future, some of our priority advocacies include:
Relative to the State Budget, we are advocating for:
- Increased funding for the MBTA to avoid service cuts that would reduce bus and rail service and curtail operating hours on the commuter rail
- Increased funding for Regional Transit Authorities to expand service hours, increase service and reduce wait times between buses
We are advocating for equity for transit users and drivers:
H.3662/S.2874 An Act to increase opportunity by ending debt-based driving restrictions
- Removes the statutory triggers that force the RMV to suspend a person’s license for failure to pay a fine or fee but would maintain all road safety related license suspensions.
H.3050/S.2009 An Act relative to regional transportation ballot initiatives
- Allows cities and towns to raise revenue to pay for local and regional transportation projects.
H.1251 An Act Relative to Transportation Network Company Fees
- Charges per ride fees for rideshare companies from $.20 per ride to a percentage of the cost of ride to raise revenue for transportation.
S.2246 An Act aligning the Commonwealth’s transportation plans with its mandates and goals for reducing emissions and vehicle miles traveled
- Sets a vehicle miles traveled reduction goal to decrease pollution from transportation.
S.2354 An Act establishing a regional equity and roadway board
- Establishes a regional board to develop and deploy a comprehensive roadway pricing plan for the Boston area and make recommendations to the Legislature.
S.2353 An Act establishing the Metropolitan Transportation Network
- Amends the definition of the Metropolitan Highway System and implements a comprehensive tolling and roadway pricing plan for the system by July 1, 2026.
We are advocating for commuter benefits which supports and encourages the use of public transit:
S.2038 An Act to increase the commuter tax deduction to reflect rising costs
- Increases the commuter deduction on state taxes from $750 to $1500.
S.1345 An Act expanding access to commuter transit benefits offered by employers
- Requires employers of 50 or more employees to offer pre-tax commuter benefits to employees.
We are advocating for the funding of micro-transit for residents in areas there are no other options, and for more transportation options so we fill transportation gaps that are critical to a better quality of life:
S.2366/H.3658 An Act establishing a special commission on micro-transit
- Establishes a commission to define and make recommendations for long term sustainable funding for microtransit statewide.
