WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 5105

AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS -- RHODE ISLAND PUBLIC TRANSIT AUTHORITY

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Edith Ajello and 6 co-sponsors

HB 5105 - AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS -- RHODE ISLAND PUBLIC TRANSIT AUTHORITY OverviewBill Number: HB 5105 Title: AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CAR

04/01/2025 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 5105

HB 5105 - AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS -- RHODE ISLAND PUBLIC TRANSIT AUTHORITY

Overview

Bill Number: HB 5105
Title: AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS -- RHODE ISLAND PUBLIC TRANSIT AUTHORITY
Status: 04/01/2025 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
Introduced: March 13, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This bill aims to restructure and expand the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) to improve public transportation services across the state. The primary goals are to increase ridership, enhance accessibility, and promote sustainable mobility options for Rhode Island residents.

Key Provisions

  • Expands the RIPTA board of directors from 7 to 11 members to better represent diverse stakeholder interests
  • Mandates the development of a comprehensive 10-year public transit master plan to guide long-term system improvements
  • Requires RIPTA to conduct a statewide transit needs assessment and service gap analysis
  • Authorizes RIPTA to implement a regional fare system and integrated payment options across modes
  • Allocates an additional $25 million in annual funding for RIPTA operations and capital projects
  • Directs RIPTA to pilot new transit services, such as microtransit and on-demand shuttles, in underserved areas
  • Establishes a new Office of Sustainable Mobility within RIPTA to promote walking, biking, and other eco-friendly transportation

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Rhode Island residents who rely on public transportation would benefit from improved service quality, reliability, and accessibility
  • Local governments and communities would see enhanced connectivity and reduced traffic congestion
  • RIPTA would gain additional resources and authority to modernize the state's public transit system
  • Private transportation providers may face increased competition from expanded RIPTA services

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

The bill is currently being held for further study by the committee after its initial introduction on March 13, 2025. If passed, the legislation would take effect on July 1, 2025, with RIPTA required to develop the 10-year master plan within 18 months. The additional funding and new service initiatives would be phased in over a multi-year period.

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

Sign in to ask a question.