Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S2291

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Promoting fare equity

Impact

The proposed legislation has implications for how fares are calculated and charged throughout Boston's transportation network. By establishing all commuter rail stations in the city as Zone 1A, it seeks to create a single fare zone that could simplify fare structures and make commuting more affordable for residents. If enacted, this bill will likely contribute to increased ridership on public transport by reducing costs for Boston commuters, which could ultimately foster greater economic mobility in the area.

Summary

Senate Bill S2291, titled 'An Act promoting fare equity,' aims to enhance the fare structure of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) by designating all commuter rail stations in Boston as Zone 1A. This change is intended to promote equity among commuters using the rail services within the city. The bill was presented by a group of legislators, including Michael F. Rush and Mayor Michelle Wu, reflecting a growing concern for equality and accessibility in public transportation pricing.

Contention

Discussions surrounding S2291 may highlight differing views about public transportation equity. Supporters of the bill argue that fare equity is essential for promoting access to jobs, schools, and services across the city, particularly for low-income residents who rely heavily on public transportation. However, there may also be concerns regarding the financial implications for the MBTA, including potential funding shortfalls that could arise from a uniform fare structure diminishing revenues from fare zones that previously charged higher rates. Thus, the bill's passage could ignite a debate over balancing financial sustainability for transit services with the pressing need for equitable fare access.

Companion Bills

MA S2302

Similar To Directing the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority to install sound barriers in Quincy and Braintree

MA S2213

Similar To Relative to defining zone 1 in the MBTA commuter rail system

MA S1471

Similar To To require the Department of Public Health to conduct a study of the health impacts of airplane flights on the resident communities that are represented on the Massachusetts Port Authority Community Advisory Committee

MA H3288

Similar To Relative to fare equity

MA S2402

Similar To Improving rail service on the Fairmount commuter rail line

MA S2882

Replaced by Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Transportation to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to fares and transportation matters.

Previously Filed As

MA S2440

Promoting fare equity

MA S2497

Relative to shelter benefits for veterans

MA S1931

Incentivizing veterans to reside in the Commonwealth

MA S2341

Relative to shelter benefits for veterans

MA S1024

Ensuring affordability in perpetuity

MA S2349

Relative to outreach to veterans

MA S1220

Relative to collective bargaining dues

MA S1908

Increasing the cap on outside income for public pension recipients

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.