Bill > H3002

This bill aims to create a more equitable public transit fare structure by establishing new rules for fare setting and introducing discount programs. Specifically, it mandates that fares for children aged 5-19 and seniors 65 and older, as well as individuals with disabilities, should not exceed 35% of the regular adult cash fare, and these discounted fares must include free transfer privileges. The bill also limits fare increases to no more than once every two years, with any increase capped by the percentage rise in average wages, as measured by the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics. Furthermore, it introduces a Universal University Pass Program (U-Pass) requiring colleges and universities within one mile of transit service to provide unlimited rides to full-time students for a set semester fee, and a voluntary Universal Employer Pass Program (E-Pass) for large employers (50+ employees) to offer unlimited rides to their employees, with fares negotiated to ensure no loss of revenue for transit authorities. A discount program for low-income residents will also be established, with transit authorities reporting on fare revenue reductions and being reimbursed by the Department of Transportation. Finally, a two-year pilot program for a discounted youth pass for individuals aged 12-21 will be implemented to assess its feasibility and inform future policy recommendations.