The transportation budget allocates at least $15 million to new and existing fare-free bus transit programs.

The Massachusetts state budget for 2024 includes funding for a “major expansion” of fare-free bus transit around the state, reports Christian MilNeil in Streetsblog Massachusetts.
“RTAs [Regional Transit Authorities] this year are getting an additional $90 million in state funding from new revenue that the state is collecting from a newly-enacted income tax on high-income households. That additional funding nearly doubles the state's financial support to the RTAs this year compared to the 2023 budget,” amounting to almost twice the 2023 budget. The legislation requires that $15 million be spent on free fare programs.
See the source article for a list of new fare-free programs that are slated to go into effect this year.
FULL STORY: New Year, No Fares: Beacon Hill Bankrolls Dozens of Free Bus Routes Statewide

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

California Invests Additional $5M in Electric School Buses
The state wants to electrify all of its school bus fleets by 2035.

Austin Launches $2M Homelessness Prevention Fund
A new grant program from the city’s Homeless Strategy Office will fund rental assistance and supportive services.

Alabama School Forestry Initiative Brings Trees to Schoolyards
Trees can improve physical and mental health for students and commnity members.
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