October 10, 2025 - USDOT warned major transit agencies to improve safety and curb fare evasion or risk losing federal funds amid rising post-pandemic transit crime and funding uncertainty.

Stakeholders still have to agree on two major facets: a funding source and governance changes. While there is more agreement among stakeholders on reforms than funding, it’s unlikely lawmakers will move one without the other.

The move, condemned by Illinois officials, appeared to be part of the Trump administration’s aim of using the government shutdown as leverage.

Chicago’s commuter rail is moving to raise fares to help offset a budget gap that threatens to upend the region’s transit service.

Riders and workers warn of economic catastrophe as CTA officials outline a potential $1 billion shortfall, with solutions hinging on state action.

Illinois lawmakers are set to return to Springfield Tuesday for a two-week veto session, with discussions on Chicago transit, energy and criminal justice reform.

This is not about taking control away from communities. It is about giving them more tools to shape growth around transit.

The administration plans to revoke federal funding over what it calls “discriminatory, illegal, and wasteful contracting practices.”

Chicago-area public transit agencies are facing a fiscal cliff. The budget gap for CTA, Metra and Pace is at $200 million, according to the Regional Transportation Authority.

The $570 million reduction from previous estimates provides only temporary relief. The fiscal cliff jumps to $789 million in 2027.

Governor JB Pritzker and other Illinois congressional and elected officials criticized the Trump administration for freezing $2.1 billion in Chicago transit funding.