INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – Tea party activists who are among the harshest critics of a proposal to expand mass transit in central Indiana told a legislative panel they oppose any tax increases to fund such an expansion.
 
Three tea party members testified Thursday against the $1.3 billion proposal that lawmakers delayed last session and sent to a study committee for review. 
 
That proposal would have permitted voters in 10 central Indiana counties to decide whether to increase local income taxes to expand bus service and possibly add a light rail line.

Tea Party of Hamilton County President Don Bauder told the panel the expansion isn't needed. He says limited mass transit hasn't stifled the Indianapolis area's economic development. 

The committee must send its recommendations on how to proceed to lawmakers by Dec. 15.