Bill > H3116

This bill proposes to amend existing Massachusetts law to allow certain veterans to ride public transportation for free. Specifically, it would require the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), which operates public transit in the Boston metropolitan area, and other regional and local transportation authorities in the state to offer free commuter rail, subway, bus, shuttle, and boat services to veterans. To qualify for this benefit, veterans must be certified by the United States Department of Defense, be traveling to or from a Veterans Administration (VA) hospital for medical care, and present proof of a medical appointment on the day of travel, including their name, the date, and the location of the appointment, as indicated by a notice from the VA. This provision aims to improve access to medical care for veterans by reducing transportation barriers.