Local Advocates Rally Against Transit Cuts

Dozens of advocates for public transportation rallied in downtown Minneapolis Tuesday. Local mechanics, drivers and public transit riders joined members of transportation organizations for what is being called "Don't X Out Public Transit Day."

The rally was part of a nationwide movement. Groups organized to rally in 10 cities across the country, speaking out against cuts to public transit.

Congress recently extended current funding for transportation. The temporary measure will last through March. However, a proposed 6-year plan by Florida House Republican John Mica would cut annual transportation spending by 30 to 35 percent.

"Cutting routes, less frequent service, fewer buses running, those buses that are running in worse repair. So just in general degradation that you see when you cut funds from a critical service," said Andrea Kiepe, Upper Midwest Field Organizer for Transportation for America.