An Act to promote commuter rail ridership

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Tony Cabral and 6 co-sponsors

The bill would create a new MBTA commuter rail fare framework to boost ridership, including cheaper weekday fares, blended passes, fewer zones, and parking-based offsets.

Accompanied a study order, see H5132

Overview

H.3632, introduced February 27, 2025 by Rep. Antonio F. D. Cabral, seeks to boost MBTA commuter rail ridership by reforming fare structures and launching pilot programs to test new pricing. The bill would amend Chapter 161A to add a new Section 53 (Commuter rail service fares). A hearing is scheduled for September 16, 2025, in room B-2.

What the bill would do

Create a new MBTA fare framework for the commuter rail aimed at increasing ridership, especially among residents of transit-oriented areas.

Provisions focus on making rail fares more affordable and flexible, while potentially offsetting discount revenue with other pricing changes (notably parking).

Key provisions and changes

Section 53: Commuter rail service fares (new MBTA Fare Structure)

A $10 all-inclusive weekday fare (designed to be comparable to the current $10 weekend/holiday fare).
One-way fares capped at no more than three times the regular subway fare.
Monthly passes priced for “hybrid workers” (e.g., individuals who commute three days per week rather than five).
Discounts for multiple rides (examples given: 10- or 12-pack tickets).
Reducing the number of commuter rail zones and simplifying overall fare pricing.
Any reductions in ticket prices would be offset by increases in parking rates.

Section 2 (Implementation planning)

Within 12 months of enactment, the MBTA General Manager must submit recommendations on the proposed fare changes and other possibilities to the Governor and the Legislature, including estimates of how ridership would be affected.

Section 3 (Pilot programs)

Within 24 months of enactment, the MBTA General Manager must execute pilot programs to test the proposed fare changes and their impact on ridership, based on the Section 1 recommendations.

Who/what would be affected

MBTA commuter rail operations and pricing.

Riders of the MBTA commuter rail, particularly those in transit-oriented areas and potential “hybrid workers.”

Related revenue streams, including potential shifts in parking pricing as a counterbalance to fare reductions.

Overall riders’ accessibility and commuting choices, with a focus on simplified pricing and expanded affordability.

Procedural and timeline details

Status: Hearing scheduled for September 16, 2025, 1:00 PM–5:00 PM (Room B-2).

Introduced: February 27, 2025.

Referred to: Committee on Transportation.

Legislative actions show “Senate concurred” on February 27, 2025, and related bill HD 3431 is noted as replacing this instrument.

As with all bills, enactment would require passage by both House and Senate and assent by the Governor.

Potential impacts to watch

Ridership and transit-oriented development in areas served by the MBTA commuter rail.

Operational and revenue implications for MBTA due to lower fares and compensated by parking rate changes.

Feasibility and effectiveness of pilots in achieving stated ridership goals.

Note: The bill lays out a framework and requires MBTA action within defined timelines. All specifics would depend on MBTA implementation and legislative confirmation.

Bill