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A 5962

Permits the governor to direct the metropolitan transportation authority to provide free transportation to students during a state of emergency

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Robert Carroll

Bill A 5962 allows the governor to direct the MTA to provide free transportation for students during emergencies, ensuring access to education when it's needed most.

REFERRED TO CORPORATIONS, AUTHORITIES AND COMMISSIONS
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Bill Summary · A 5962

Summary of Bill A 5962

Bill Number: A 5962
Title: Permits the governor to direct the metropolitan transportation authority to provide free transportation to students during a state of emergency
Status: Referred to Corporations, Authorities and Commissions
Introduced: February 25, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 5962 aims to enhance the accessibility of transportation for students during times of crisis by allowing the governor to mandate the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to provide free transportation services. This initiative is designed to ensure that students can continue to access educational resources and services even in the face of emergencies, such as natural disasters or public health crises.

Key Provisions

  • Authority to Provide Free Transportation: The bill grants the governor the power to direct the MTA to offer free transportation to students.
  • Scope of Emergencies: The provision applies during declared states of emergency, which can include various situations that disrupt normal transportation services.
  • Eligibility: While the bill specifies "students," it does not delineate specific age ranges or educational levels, potentially encompassing K-12 students as well as college attendees.

Impact

  • Students: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation would be students who rely on public transportation to commute to schools or educational institutions. Free transportation could alleviate financial burdens on families during emergencies.
  • Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA): The MTA would be required to implement the directive from the governor, which may involve logistical adjustments and resource allocation to accommodate increased ridership during emergencies.
  • Communities: By ensuring that students can access education during emergencies, the bill aims to support community resilience and continuity of education.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of February 25, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Corporations, Authorities and Commissions committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: This bill is related to A 8107 from the prior session, which may provide context or additional provisions relevant to student transportation during emergencies.

Conclusion

Bill A 5962 represents a proactive approach to ensuring that students maintain access to education during emergencies by facilitating free transportation through the MTA. Its successful passage could significantly impact students and their families, particularly in times of crisis. Further discussions and evaluations by the Corporations, Authorities and Commissions committee will determine the bill's future trajectory.

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

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