The U.S. Department of Transportation is threatening to withhold up to 25% of transit funding from major cities including Boston, Chicago, and New York City if they do not improve safety for passengers and workers.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has issued a 14-day warning to the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), demanding they submit security and fare-evasion plans or face potential loss of federal funds.

Duffy criticized local leadership for prioritizing criminals over safety and emphasized the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect transit riders and workers.

These actions are part of a broader federal effort under the Trump administration to address safety issues across major U.S. transit systems, with officials committed to 'making transit safe again.'

The CTA has acknowledged receipt of the federal notice and is preparing a 14-day plan to address crime and fare evasion, with Acting President Nora Leerhsen leading the response.

Federal officials highlighted that one in five Chicago residents do not feel safe using public transit, raising concerns over how federal safety funds are being allocated.

The Chicago Transit Authority has not responded to requests for comment regarding the safety concerns and potential funding threats.

Federal Transit Administration Administrator Marc Molinaro stated that Chicago's transit system is failing in terms of public safety and stressed the need for increased security funding.

Similarly, Boston's transit authority, led by CEO Phillip Eng, is in discussions with the Federal Transit Administration about security improvements, emphasizing a shared commitment to safety.

The federal government has expressed concern over a decade-long rise in transit crime and recent violent incidents, intensifying scrutiny on safety measures.

The MBTA has also received similar notices, with warnings that federal support could be cut if safety improvements are not implemented.

The USDOT has sent formal letters to both Boston and Chicago transit authorities demanding responses within two weeks regarding their safety plans.

In addition to Chicago and Boston, the threat of funding cuts extends to New York City transit, with officials warning that up to 25% of federal funding could be withheld if safety issues are not addressed.