Bill > H3059

This bill aims to create a more equitable public transit fare structure by implementing several key provisions. It establishes that fares for children aged 5-19 and seniors 65 and older, as well as individuals with disabilities, will not exceed 35% of the regular adult cash fare, and these discounted fares must include free transfer privileges. The bill also restricts fare increases to no more than once every two years, with any increase capped by the percentage increase in average wages as reported by the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics. Furthermore, it introduces a mandatory Universal University Pass Program (U-Pass) for full-time college students within one mile of transit service, offering unlimited rides, and a voluntary Universal Employer Pass Program (E-Pass) for large employers to provide similar benefits to their employees, with the goal of widespread adoption. Additionally, the bill mandates the creation of discount programs for low-income residents and a two-year pilot program for a youth pass for individuals aged 12-21 to assess its feasibility and potential for broader implementation.