Overview
- RTA board members said they have been shut out of closed-door talks and pressed for immediate action before the veto session ends next week.
- The 2026 operating hole stands at roughly $202 million after stronger sales-tax receipts, cost controls and a planned CTA fare increase narrowed earlier projections, though forecasts show far larger deficits returning in 2027 and 2028.
- Without a state solution, officials warn of up to 40% service reductions across CTA, Metra and Pace, with the CTA estimating about 1,700–1,800 layoffs and potential elimination of up to 39 bus routes and one L line.
- A Senate-approved plan to raise about $1.5 billion annually through an online delivery tax and other surcharges has not been called in the House.
- Debate over governance changes—including a proposal to replace the RTA with a Northern Illinois Transit Authority that suburban lawmakers say would concentrate power in Chicago—remains a major sticking point.