Moed: Party politics derail light rail bill, jeopardizing economic development efforts in Central Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS – State Rep. Justin W. Moed (D-Indianapolis) today issued the following statement after Indiana Senate Republicans killed legislation (House Bill 1080) that would have lifted the state law banning light rail projects in Central Indiana:

“I am disappointed that the Senate chose to play politics instead of working on job creation. Our region has a once in a generation opportunity to attract thousands of jobs for Hoosiers in need of work, but I am disappointed that the long-term benefits of this legislation were sacrificed for short-term political gain.

“Supporters of the bill believe the long-term impact of having an option for light rail would help city leaders better attract corporations like Amazon who are considering moving to Indianapolis. Transportation is an important factor when considering relocation or building new operations. Ease in transporting workers and potential customers is important to these corporations, and we must understand that mass transit should be part of those discussions.

“Instead of rolling up their sleeves to help city leaders find ways to address infrastructure needs and grow our city’s economic development opportunities, they chose to play partisan politics. This approach solves nothing.

“House Bill 1080 received broad bipartisan support in the House, passing by a 90-5 margin.

“This is the second time the Senate has dropped the ball on efforts to lure Amazon. Earlier this session, remember that they failed to pass an effort to include a protection for hate crimes in Indiana Code.

“But rest assured that this does not mean the end of this idea. If there is a chance to revive it before the end of this session, I will do it. The concept is supported by many groups across the spectrum, and they understand the importance of addressing these issues now.”