New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S08508

Introduced
9/12/25  
Refer
9/12/25  

Caption

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

Impact

The implementation of this bill is expected to significantly impact the public authorities law as it adds a new section specifically focused on youth fare policies. This law aims to promote public transportation usage among minors, potentially leading to an increase in ridership during off-peak hours when discounted fares may be especially appealing. Furthermore, the policy could enhance connectivity for adolescents to community resources, educational institutions, and extracurricular activities, encouraging greater independence and mobility among youths.

Summary

Bill S08508 proposes the establishment of a family fare ticket policy by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) for minors aged twelve to seventeen. The bill mandates that the MTA develop and implement this policy to ensure that minors can access discounted fares on transportation services offered by the authority. Notably, the bill clarifies that the presence of a parent or guardian is not required for minors to benefit from these discounts, thereby making transportation more accessible for a wider group of young individuals.

Contention

While S08508 has the potential to benefit young commuters, there may be discussions regarding the financial implications for the MTA and taxpayers. Concerns could arise over how these discounted fares will affect the authority's overall revenue, especially if the uptake of the family fare proves to be high. Additionally, stakeholders might debate the effectiveness of targeting such discounts, evaluating whether this policy adequately addresses broader issues of public transportation accessibility and affordability for all demographics.

Companion Bills

NY A07017

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

Previously Filed As

NY A07017

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

NY A09356

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

NY A09361

Directs the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to establish a free bus fare program for high school 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 S08694

Requires the metropolitan transportation authority to install solar canopies on its parking facilities.

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 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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.