In summary California transit agencies need immediate assistance from the federal and state government to overcome today’s challenges from COVID-19. By Michael Pimentel, Special to CalMatters Michael Pimentel is executive director of the California Transit Association, . California’s public transit agencies are facing unprecedented budget deficits due to depressed ridership, reduced sales tax revenues and the high cost of implementing health and safety measures designed to keep transit frontline workers and riders safe. To remain viable, public transit agencies have been forced to make painful decisions, like reducing service levels, slowing capital projects and furloughing employees. Without further federal and state action, these decisions could become permanent, leaving communities across the state with service that is severely compromised.