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HB 5479

AN ACT CONCERNING FUNDING FOR THE ENCOMPASS TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM SERVING THE ELDERLY AND DISABLED POPULATION.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Saud Anwar and 16 co-sponsors

HB 5479 provides $3.5M in annual funding to expand the Encompass Transportation Program, serving 15,000 more elderly/disabled in Hartford County and improving reliability of crucial services.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Appropriations
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Bill Summary · HB 5479

HB 5479: Funding for the Encompass Transportation Program

Summary

This bill aims to provide increased state funding for the Encompass Transportation Program, which serves the elderly and disabled populations in Hartford County. The program offers crucial transportation services to these vulnerable groups, helping them access essential services, medical appointments, and maintain their independence.

Key Provisions

  • Allocates an additional $3.5 million in annual state funding to the Encompass Transportation Program starting in the 2026 fiscal year.
  • Requires the program to expand its service area to cover the entire Hartford County region, ensuring equitable access for all elderly and disabled residents.
  • Mandates that at least 80% of the additional funding be used directly for operational costs, such as vehicle maintenance, fuel, and driver salaries.
  • Directs the program to explore ways to improve efficiency and maximize the number of riders served per dollar spent.
  • Calls for annual reporting to the state legislature on the program's ridership, operational metrics, and use of the additional funding.

Impact

The increased state funding would allow the Encompass Transportation Program to:

  • Serve an estimated 15,000 additional elderly and disabled riders annually, a 25% increase over current levels.
  • Expand its fleet of vehicles and hire more drivers to meet the growing demand for services.
  • Enhance the reliability and frequency of transportation services, helping seniors and individuals with disabilities maintain their independence and access critical services.
  • Potentially reduce wait times and improve responsiveness to ride requests from the target population.

Timeline

If passed, the bill would take effect on July 1, 2025, with the $3.5 million in additional annual funding beginning in the 2026 fiscal year. The program would be required to submit its first annual report to the legislature by January 1, 2027.

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

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