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HB 1137

MARTA; authority of local governing bodies to collect a 1 percent retail sales and use tax; extend sunset

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stacey Evans and 5 co-sponsors

Georgia bill extends local authority to collect 1% sales tax for MARTA transit funding, preventing revenue lapse and maintaining Atlanta-area transportation operations.

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Bill Summary · HB 1137

Legislative bill overview

HB 1137 extends the sunset provision that allows local governing bodies within MARTA's (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) service area to collect a 1 percent retail sales and use tax. The bill essentially prevents the expiration of this local taxing authority, allowing continued collection of revenue dedicated to transit operations and improvements.

Why is this important

The 1 percent sales tax is a primary funding mechanism for MARTA's operations, maintenance, and capital projects. Letting the authority sunset would either require finding alternative revenue sources or result in reduced transit service and infrastructure investment in the Atlanta metropolitan area, affecting millions of commuters and economic activity.

Potential points of contention

  • Tax burden concerns: Opponents may argue this extends a regressive tax that disproportionately affects lower-income residents who spend a higher percentage of income on taxable goods
  • Accountability and performance: Questions about whether MARTA demonstrates sufficient operational efficiency and transparency to justify continued dedicated taxation
  • Geographic fairness: Debate over whether the tax structure fairly distributes costs and benefits across different communities within the MARTA service area, particularly regarding gentrification and development patterns

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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