Bill > HR4719

This bill creates a grant program called the "Freedom to Move Grants" to support fare-free public transportation across the United States. The Secretary of Transportation would award competitive grants to eligible entities like states, counties, municipalities, transit agencies, and nonprofit organizations to cover lost fare revenue and improve public transportation. Applicants must detail how they plan to implement fare-free transit, expand bus services, and prioritize underserved communities, with a focus on improving transit access for low-income populations, youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Grant recipients must demonstrate plans to enhance bus route connectivity, conduct community outreach, evaluate existing mobility gaps, and address fare evasion policies. The grants would be awarded for a five-year period, with $5 billion authorized annually from fiscal years 2026-2030. The bill requires recipients to use funds not only for eliminating transit fares but also for improving infrastructure like bus stops, pedestrian shelters, and transit signal systems. Additionally, the Secretary must collect and report data on the program's impact, specifically tracking how the grants help close transit equity gaps across different demographic groups.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4719/all-info