Update: Adds statement from the California High-Speed Rail Authority as requested.

Ed. Note: The following is a news release provided by the office of Senator Sharon Runner. 

A bill introduced Thursday by Senator Sharon Runner, R-Antelope Valley, would cut Cap and Trade funds being used for the High Speed Rail project and return the funds previously allotted.

Introduced in the First Extraordinary Session on Transportation Infrastructure, Senate Bill 1X 6 would instead require Cap and Trade dollars be used to fund existing transportation projects.

“I do not support the Cap and Trade tax, but drivers are already paying it at the pump to the tune of $1.9 billion a year,” said Runner. “California should not spend another dollar on the high speed rail boondoggle; if taxpayers are being forced to pay, the money should be used for existing transportation purposes.”

Currently, 25 percent of annual Cap and Trade proceeds are used to pay for the failed High Speed Rail project. SB 1X 6 would redirect these funds to the California Transportation Commission to be used for necessary, high priority transportation projects such as fixing our roads and highways. It would also return the $400 million in Cap and Trade taxes borrowed by the General Fund.

“Instead of High Speed Rail, we should be spending Cap and Trade dollars to restore our badly neglected transportation infrastructure,” said Runner. “We need to work on improving our existing transportation system. Fixing and updating our roads to meet current demands would benefit California’s families and reduce greenhouse gasses right away.”

Elected in March 2015, Sharon Runner represents portions of Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties as Senator for the 21st District. Her district includes the Antelope Valley, Victor Valley and portions of the Santa Clarita Valley. For more information, click here. 

“Attempts to defund high-speed rail in the past have not been successful nor do they address our state’s current transportation and mobility needs,” said Lisa Marie Alley, California High-Speed Rail Authority spokeswoman.  “The high-speed rail program is an affordable alternative to building more highways and runways and a smart investment in our future.  It also provides millions of dollars to upgrade existing transit systems including LA Metro and Metrolink to make them more efficient, cleaner and safer.”