New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A09361

Introduced
12/19/25  
Refer
12/19/25  

Caption

Directs the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to establish a free bus fare program for high school students.

Impact

This initiative is expected to enhance the mobility of high school students in New York City, potentially increasing attendance and participation in educational and social activities. Additionally, the free fare program may alleviate some financial burdens on families, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds who rely on public transportation for their daily commutes. The implementation of this program could set a precedent for similar initiatives aimed at supporting youth through subsidized transportation.

Summary

Bill A09361 proposes to amend the public authorities law in New York to establish a free bus fare program specifically designed for all high school students enrolled in accredited public or private high schools within the city. The bill aims to facilitate greater access to public transportation for students, ensuring they can travel without the hurdle of bus fare. The program is intended to operate daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10 p.m., allowing students flexibility in their commutes during the busiest times of the day, whether for school or extracurricular activities.

Contention

While the proposed bill may garner support from parents, student advocacy groups, and educational institutions, it could face scrutiny regarding its funding and logistics. Questions may arise about how the Metropolitan Transportation Authority will manage and sustain the program financially, as well as handle potential increases in bus ridership as a result. Stakeholders may also debate the operational aspects, including the rules and regulations that need to be developed to effectively implement the fare-free program.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY A09356

Directs the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to establish a free bus fare program for students.

NY A09427

Directs the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to establish a free bus fare program for seniors who are enrolled in a reduced fare program.

NY A10875

Directs the metropolitan transportation authority to establish a city university of New York student fare program for trains and buses which provides a full fare reduction for five train and/or bus fares each weekday equal to the standard pay-per-ride fare.

NY S09581

Directs the metropolitan transportation authority to establish a city university of New York student fare program for trains and buses which provides a full fare reduction for five train and/or bus fares each weekday equal to the standard pay-per-ride fare.

NY A09083

Requires the metropolitan transit authority establish a thirty-day fare cap program which provides customers an unlimited pass for the month after paying a set amount of fares.

NY S09373

Requires the metropolitan transit authority establish a thirty-day fare cap program which provides customers an unlimited pass for the month after paying a set amount of fares.

NY S08508

Requires the metropolitan transportation authority to establish a family fare ticket policy for minors aged twelve through seventeen.

NY S09186

Directs the metropolitan transportation authority, in consultation with the Long Island Rail Road, the New York city transit authority, and the Metro-North Commuter Railroad Company, to establish a no fare program for transportation on the Long Island Rail Road, the New York city transit authority, and the Metro-North Commuter Railroad Company for certain active duty, reserves, retired armed forces members, firefighters, and police officers.

NY A03509

Directs the MTA to establish a reduced fare program in the metropolitan transportation authority for veterans who are students.

NY S09292

Directs the metropolitan transportation authority, in consultation with the Long Island Rail Road, to establish a no fare program for transportation on the Long Island Rail Road for individuals in active military service of the United States and active duty members of the New York national guard, upon showing a military or national guard identification card.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.