New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S09581

Introduced
3/26/26  

Caption

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.

Impact

The implementation of this bill would likely lead to changes in the existing public authorities law, requiring adjustments to the MTA's funding and operational structure to accommodate the fare reductions. By facilitating greater access to affordable transportation, this program could encourage higher enrollment and attendance rates among CUNY students, while simultaneously supporting the public transportation sector by increasing ridership during off-peak hours. The overall goal is to foster an environment where financial barriers do not impede educational opportunities for students in the state.

Summary

Bill S09581 proposes the establishment of a City University of New York (CUNY) student fare program, which mandates the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to provide substantial fare reductions for CUNY students. Specifically, the program would offer a full fare reduction for five train and bus rides each weekday, corresponding to the standard pay-per-ride fare, thus easing transportation costs for students during their commute. This initiative aims to enhance access to public transportation for students, promoting educational attainment by reducing the financial burden of transit fares.

Contention

A point of contention surrounding Bill S09581 may arise from potential concerns regarding the funding mechanisms for the fare reductions. Critics could argue that while the bill seeks to benefit students, it may lead to financial stresses on the MTA's budget, hence impacting service levels for all riders. There could also be discussions about the fairness of prioritizing one group over others in terms of fare subsidies. Proponents will need to address these concerns by outlining how the program can be sustainably funded without jeopardizing the overall efficiency and viability of public transit services.

Companion Bills

NY A10875

Same As 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.

Previously Filed As

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 A03024

Directs the metropolitan transportation authority to establish a student fare program for trains and buses which discounts three train and/or bus fares each weekday equal to the standard pay-per-ride fare.

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 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.

NY S07520

Prohibits the imposition of time limits or curfews on fares provided to students as part of a student fare program.

NY S08508

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

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.