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Senate passes light-rail funding measure; critics warn of large subsidies
Summary
The Utah Senate passed SB108, a measure related to placing a light-rail funding question before voters and to seek federal funds; supporters said federal action is needed to start money flowing while some senators warned of large local subsidies and urged caution.
Senate Bill 108, a measure concerning light-rail transit funding and the placement of a vote to solicit federal support, passed the Utah Senate after floor debate about cost and local subsidy obligations.
Senator Cornaby, speaking for the measure, described it as the "light rail bill" and reminded senators that the bill would not only place a question before voters but also send a signal to Washington to encourage federal funding. Senator Barton cautioned that the bill commits the state and localities to substantial subsidy and urged senators outside Salt Lake County to consider the financial impact carried by their constituents. "This issue... is not as simple as what it sounds," Barton said, warning about the scale of potential commitments.
Discussion focused on whether passage would simply put a question to voters or represent a broader fiscal commitment, and on how state and local governments might share costs or attract federal dollars. After floor discussion, the Senate recorded a roll-call; SB108 passed with 18 yeas, 10 nays, 1 absent and was sent to the House for further action.
Next steps: The House will consider the bill; sponsors said the measure is intended to help secure federal funds for a Salt Lake County light-rail project and to provide a local option for voters.
