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Velázquez Seeks Free Transit for Low-Income NYers, Seniors

April 18, 2018

Velázquez Seeks Free Transit for Low-Income NYers, Seniors

Bill Would Authorize Federal Funding for Public Transit Authorities

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) today announced new legislation aimed at making public transit fares more affordable for low-income commuters, seniors and other vulnerable populations. Her bill, the "Transportation Equity Act," would establish a new federal grant program that Public Transit Authorities (PTAs) like the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) could apply for if they offer free, unlimited transportation passes for specific groups. Velázquez said her bill would put federal dollars toward addressing a fundamental issue affecting thousands of New Yorkers.

"Being able to traverse the city, whether to attend work or keep a medical appointment or simply visit family, should be a fundamental right," Velázquez noted. "Today, too many vulnerable New Yorkers must choose between affording their subway fare and buying groceries. The federal government should help cities like New York put transit in reach for all our neighbors."

Velázquez's bill would make federal funds available for city transit systems that create "Transit Unlimited" or "T-U Passes." Individuals eligible for a T-U pass would include: those 60 years or older; persons with disabilities; people in receipt of means-tested benefits like food stamps; and individuals whose income is 300% or less of the poverty line. Spouses of these individuals and their dependents could also apply for the transit benefit.

Recent studies have documented that it has become increasingly challenging for working and low-income New Yorkers to shoulder transportation costs. One report from the Community Service Society of New York (CSS) found that 1 in 4 low-income New Yorkers cannot afford to use public transportation.

"If you can't afford to use the subway or the bus, it simply becomes that much harder to attain a decent paying job or secure affordable housing," Velázquez added. "If your income level keeps you off public transit, you are effectively locked out of other basic opportunities."

Velázquez's bill comes as momentum mounts for New York to provide reduced fares for low-income New Yorkers. Her bill was cosponsored by five other Members of the New York City Congressional delegation. The measure also won acclaim from several New York City Council Members.

"Public transit moves our nation forward, ensuring that seniors can access critical services and working men and women can get to their jobs," said House Democratic Caucus Chairman Joe Crowley (D-NY). "But rising transit costs are putting an undue burden on far too many New Yorkers. I'm proud to join Congresswoman Velasquez to provide much-needed relief to seniors, disabled persons, and working families who will greatly benefit from improved access to public transit."

"The TEA Act will bring us one step closer to making public transportation affordable for all New Yorkers. It will cut fares for those that need it most, helping to ensure that they can afford to get to work, access healthcare, or attend school," said Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY).

"Seniors, low-income persons, and other vulnerable populations need reliable access to public transportation. Oftentimes, even access to public transportation is beyond their means. This legislation will guarantee that they can use New York City's transportation system for free so that they can move around and access key health and social services more easily. Thousands of Bronxites stand to benefit from this proposal," said Congressman Jose E. Serrano (D-NY).

"I commend Congresswoman Velázquez on today's introduction of the Transportation Equity Act to keep public transit fares affordable for New Yorkers," said Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-NY). "Often low-income communities have limited options for transit to get to and from work, school and other appointments. This bill would lessen the financial burden these residents face when traveling throughout the city. A safe, reliable and affordable transit system keeps our community and our economy vibrant and strong. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleague in Congress to put forth responsible solutions to help address transportation and transit needs throughout our communities."

"Reduced fare MetroCards will grant low-income New Yorkers greater access to employment and education opportunities, both of which can lead to intergenerational mobility. No New Yorker should have to decide whether to purchase a MetroCard or pay their electricity bill, which is why I join my colleagues in supporting discounted fares," said Council Member Diana Ayala, Co-Chair of the Progressive Caucus.

"New York City's working poor should not have to jump turnstiles or beg for a swipe in order to get access to our public transportation system," said Council Member Ben Kallos, Co-Chair of the Progressive Caucus. "If you are making minimum wage in this City you have to put three hours of pay aside every week just to afford to get to work. Congress Member Velasquez's competitive grant legislation is exactly what we need: financial support for the transportation costs of low-income New Yorkers. We support this initiative by the Congress Member to help bring much-needed equity to our City's transportation system."

"Fair Fares allows low-income New Yorkers the chance to make a living for themselves and their families, getting to and from work without worrying about the cost of the commute," said Council Member Keith Powers, Vice-Chair of Budget for Progressive Caucus. "New Yorkers confront this crisis every day on their daily commutes when they are asked for a swipe. With federal investment in Fair Fares, thousands of New Yorkers can realize new opportunities, free of fiscal consequences."

"It isn't public transit if people can't afford the fare," said Council Member Carlos Menchaca, Vice-Chair of Engagement for the Progressive Caucus, and Chair of the New York City Council Committee on Immigration. "Congresswoman Velazquez's ‘Transportation Equity Act' is a smart investment in transit that will sustain communities and propel the economies of New York City and transportation systems throughout the nation."

The bill was also endorsed by a range of community groups including: Chinatown Partnership; Asian Pacific Islander American Public Affairs, NY Chapter; Betances Health Center; Lower East Side Service Center; Community Service Society; Riders Alliance NYC; Transportation Alternatives; UPROSE; and El Grito de Sunset Park.

Velázquez has previously authorized legislation aimed at strengthening New York's transit system, reducing delays and funding alternatives when major transportation arteries are closed for repairs. That bill, the Transportation Alternatives Investment Program, would expand choices for New York commuters when there are closures like the planned temporary shuttering of the L Train in January 2019 and a shutdown of parts of the M train, beginning this summer. Under her bill, federal funds from the Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) Program would be prioritized for projects in areas where there are significant transportation upgrades underway.

A summary of the Transportation Equity Act is available online here. A copy of the legislation may be downloaded here.

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