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H 3637

An Act implementing free public transit

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Connolly

Massachusetts bill eliminating public transit fares statewide, requiring alternative funding sources while potentially increasing ridership and reducing transportation costs for residents.

Hearing scheduled for 09/16/2025 from 1:00 PM-5:00 PM in B-2
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Bill Summary · H 3637

Legislative bill overview

H 3637 proposes eliminating fares for all public transit in Massachusetts, making bus, subway, and commuter rail services free to all users. The bill was introduced by Rep. Mike Connolly and is currently under review by the Transportation Committee, with a hearing scheduled for September 2025.

Why is this important

Free public transit could significantly increase ridership, reduce transportation costs for low-income residents, and potentially decrease traffic congestion and emissions. However, it raises critical questions about funding mechanisms, as transit systems currently rely substantially on fare revenue to maintain operations and fund expansion.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding gap: Public transit systems generate roughly 20-30% of operating revenue from fares; eliminating this requires identifying alternative funding sources (likely increased taxation or reallocation from other state budgets)
  • System capacity: Free transit typically increases demand substantially; without concurrent infrastructure investment, this could degrade service quality through overcrowding
  • Equity concerns: Universal free transit may benefit commuters and regular users disproportionately compared to those who rely on other transportation modes, potentially raising fairness questions about who ultimately funds the program

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

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