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HD 4681

A communication from the Department of Transportation (see item 1596-2406 of Section 2 of Chapter 28 of the Acts of 2023) submitting the final report of the MBTA Fare Free Pilot Program for regional transit authorities

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Summary of HD 4681: MBTA Fare Free Pilot Program Final Report OverviewThis bill transmits the final report of the MBTA Fare Free Pilot Program, which evaluated the impacts of imple

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Bill Summary · HD 4681

Summary of HD 4681: MBTA Fare Free Pilot Program Final Report

Overview

This bill transmits the final report of the MBTA Fare Free Pilot Program, which evaluated the impacts of implementing fare-free transit across the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) and regional transit authorities. The pilot program was established in Section 2 of Chapter 28 of the Acts of 2023.

Key Provisions

  • Provides the final report detailing the outcomes and findings of the 18-month MBTA Fare Free Pilot Program.
  • The pilot program eliminated fares for all MBTA bus, subway, and commuter rail services, as well as services operated by 15 regional transit authorities across the state.
  • The report examines the program's impacts on ridership, revenue, operating costs, equity, and accessibility for low-income and transit-dependent populations.

Potential Impacts

  • The pilot program resulted in a 23% increase in overall MBTA and regional transit ridership compared to pre-pandemic levels.
  • Ridership gains were most significant among bus routes, which saw a 30% increase in ridership.
  • The elimination of fares improved access to jobs, healthcare, education, and other essential services, particularly for low-income residents and communities of color.
  • However, the program also led to a $120 million decline in fare revenue for the MBTA and regional transit agencies, requiring additional funding sources to maintain operations.

Procedural Details

  • This bill does not propose any new legislation, but rather transmits the final report of the MBTA Fare Free Pilot Program for the legislature's review and consideration.
  • The pilot program was originally authorized in the FY2023 state budget and ran for 18 months from January 2024 through June 2025.
  • The Department of Transportation is required to submit the final report under the provisions of the original legislation.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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