Bill > S2593

This bill establishes a special legislative commission to study and develop recommendations for providing reduced or free public transit fares for students at public higher education institutions in Massachusetts. The commission will be composed of diverse members including legislative leaders, transportation officials, university representatives, and three student members appointed by the governor. The commission's primary task is to investigate various aspects of implementing reduced or free Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (MBTA) fares for students, including analyzing the financial impact, exploring different fare discount levels (such as 50% reduction or free), examining potential funding sources like institutional contributions, student fees, and state/federal funding, and reviewing ridership data and examples from other states. The commission is required to prepare a comprehensive report with policy and funding recommendations, which must be filed with legislative committees within 12 months of the act's effective date and posted on the Massachusetts Department of Transportation's website. The Department of Transportation will provide staff support and members may receive reimbursement for expenses related to their work on the commission.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Higher Education (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2593