States such as Oklahoma that do not receive back all of the revenues that they send to the Federal mass transit account are considered donor States. Unfortunately, these States are not getting nearly as much back in Federal funding as they contribute. This inequity allows for States with more urban centers to receive more dollars back than they actually contribute to the Federal account. Basically, donor States are subsidizing large metropolitan areas with the portion of the funds that we never get back. This puts smaller and rural areas at a disadvantage in trying to maintain transit systems whether it be buses or light rail.
Rural areas are, too, interested in conserving fuel and contributing to better air quality.
States should reasonably be able to expect that local dollars will be used for local transit needs. My bill will put equity into the mass transit apportionment system by returning locally generated dollars home. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.