A 3511 - Reduced or Free MTA Fare for Disabled Veterans
Overview
Bill Number: A 3511
Title: Relates to a reduced or free fare program in the MTA for disabled veterans
Status: REFERRED TO CORPORATIONS, AUTHORITIES AND COMMISSIONS
Introduced: January 28, 2025
Purpose and Intent
The primary goal of this bill is to establish a reduced or free fare program for disabled veterans on the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) public transit system in New York. The intent is to provide greater accessibility and mobility for disabled veterans, who often face financial and physical challenges in accessing public transportation.
Key Provisions
- Requires the MTA to create and implement a program offering reduced or free fares for disabled veterans
- Defines "disabled veteran" as a person who has been honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces and has a service-connected disability of 50% or more
- Specifies that the reduced or free fare program must be available for all MTA services, including subways, buses, commuter rails, and paratransit
- Directs the MTA to establish application and eligibility criteria for the program, including verification of disabled veteran status
- Authorizes the MTA to seek state or federal funding to offset the revenue loss from providing the reduced or free fares
Affected Parties and Impacts
The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be disabled veterans residing in the MTA service area. By reducing or eliminating the cost of public transit, the program aims to improve disabled veterans' access to employment, healthcare, and other essential services. This could have a positive impact on their quality of life and ability to fully participate in their communities.
The MTA would be responsible for implementing and administering the reduced or free fare program. This may require additional staffing, resources, and coordination to process applications and verify eligibility. The MTA may also need to seek funding sources to offset the revenue loss from providing discounted fares.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations
The bill has been referred to the New York State Assembly's Corporations, Authorities and Commissions Committee for further consideration. If the committee approves the bill, it would then move to the full Assembly for a vote. If passed by the Assembly, the bill would then proceed to the State Senate for consideration.
Assuming the bill is enacted, the MTA would have a specified timeline, likely within 6-12 months, to establish the reduced or free fare program for disabled veterans and begin implementation.