The Joint Legislative Audit Committee of the California State Assembly convened on June 18, 2025, to discuss an audit proposal concerning East Bay transit agencies, led by Senator Wahab. The meeting focused on Audit Number 2025-120, which aims to address the fragmented nature of transit services in the Bay Area, where 27 agencies operate across nine counties.

Senator Wahab emphasized the need for consolidation among these agencies, citing that Alameda County has the highest sales tax in California and that the current system leads to inefficiencies and wasted taxpayer resources. He pointed out that a 2021 survey indicated strong public support for a more integrated transit system, with 89% of respondents favoring a single operational entity. The senator expressed concerns about duplicative services and the lack of uniformity in agency governance, which complicates coordination and service delivery.

Auditor Parks outlined the audit's nine primary objectives, which include assessing the autonomy of the transit agencies, evaluating ridership trends post-COVID-19, and analyzing the financial conditions of the agencies involved. The audit is expected to require approximately 4,000 hours to complete, given the complexity of the task and the number of agencies involved.

Representatives from various transit agencies, including AC Transit and the Livermore Amador Valley Transit Authority, voiced their concerns regarding the proposed audit. They argued that their services do not overlap significantly and that consolidation could lead to reduced service levels and negatively impact vulnerable populations who rely on public transit. They highlighted ongoing efforts to improve coordination and efficiency without the need for a formal audit.

Senator Ransom and Senator Quirk Silva supported the audit, acknowledging the need for a thorough examination of transit operations in light of California's budget deficits and the necessity for equitable investment in public services. They noted that while agencies may resist consolidation, it is essential to explore potential efficiencies to better serve the community.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the complexities surrounding transit agency operations and the importance of understanding the financial implications of maintaining multiple agencies. The committee will consider the audit proposal further, weighing the potential benefits of increased efficiency against the concerns raised by transit agency representatives.