Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota House Bill HF2604

Introduced
3/6/23  

Caption

Transit service improvement funding provided, including transit fare elimination, transit shelters, zero-emission bus transition, arterial bus rapid transit planning, and transit signal priority system planning; working group established; reports required; and money appropriated.

Impact

The bill is expected to provide significant improvements in public transportation accessibility and quality in the identified counties, including Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington. By implementing fare elimination for a select number of bus routes, the act aims to attract more ridership, especially from low-income communities. Furthermore, the focus on zero-emission bus transitions aligns with broader environmental goals and supports Minnesota's climate initiatives by promoting cleaner transportation options.

Summary

HF2604, known as the Local Bus and Transit Improvement Act, focuses on enhancing transit services in the metropolitan area of Minnesota. The bill outlines provisions for eliminating transit fares for all riders as part of a pilot program, transitioning to zero-emission buses, and improving transit infrastructures such as shelters and signal priority systems. The Metropolitan Council is tasked with establishing a working group to plan the improvements, assess current capabilities, and report on the identified barriers and potential solutions for enhanced transit services.

Contention

Some points of contention surrounding HF2604 may include the funding allocation for the pilot programs and improvements. As the implementations require appropriations from the general fund, concerns arise regarding budget impacts and the sustainability of ongoing funding for fare elimination and transit improvements. Additionally, the effectiveness of fare elimination in increasing ridership and the operational challenges faced by the Metropolitan Council in managing these new initiatives could lead to debates among lawmakers and stakeholders in Minnesota's transportation policy landscape.

Companion Bills

MN SF3054

Similar To Transit service appropriation bill

Previously Filed As

MN HF3588

Zero-emission transit bus transition provided, and money appropriated.

MN SF4938

Zero-emission transit buses transition provisions and appropriation

MN SF3054

Transit service appropriation bill

MN AB896

Foster care: placement transition planning.

MN AB1354

Juvenile court school pupils: joint transition planning policy: individualized transition plan.

MN HB10

Maryland Transit Administration - Conversion to Zero-Emission Buses (Zero-Emission Bus Transition Act Revisions)

MN SB61

Maryland Transit Administration - Conversion to Zero-Emission Buses (Zero-Emission Bus Transition Act Revisions)

MN HB3815

Relating to transitional living services provided to foster youth transitioning to independent living.

MN HB1597

Relating to transitional living services provided to foster youth transitioning to independent living.

MN SB304

Juvenile court school pupils: joint transition planning policy: individualized transition plan.

Similar Bills

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MD SB463

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority – Funding Formulas – Alteration (WMATA Dedicated Funding Amendment Act of 2022)

MN SF3054

Transit service appropriation bill

MD HB467

Metro Funding Modification Act of 2025

MD SB384

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CA SB152

Active Transportation Program.