SPRINGFIELD— The Northern Illinois Transit Authority Act passed both houses this Friday, with support from State Senator Laura Murphy.

“This legislation is a huge step toward a safe, modernized and affordable transit system for residents in the 28^th District and across the state,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Through these reforms, we are providing solutions to real problems that commuters face every day without increasing or creating new taxes on Illinoisans.”

Senate Bill 2111 would create the Northern Illinois Transit Authority, which will oversee the CTA, Metra and Pace under a single authority. NITA would gain the ability to create a more unified, single fare system that would be more convenient for passengers. The measure also includes the creation of a board, comprised of 20 members that would include five appointments from the governor, five from the mayor of Chicago and Cook County Board President, and one from each chair or county executive of the collar country boards of DuPage McHenry, Lake and Will.

It also creates safety measures such as a law enforcement task force headed by the Cook County Sheriff’s Office while implementing new safety standards and mobile reports. Further, NITA would create the Office of Transit Safety and Experience to develop regional safety strategies and enforce safety standards. It would include unarmed, trained staff on transit vehicles to assist passengers when needed.

Senate Bill 2111 passed the Senate on October 31 and heads to the governor for approval.