PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — The Rhode Island House of Representatives has voted to restore a statewide program providing free bus rides to low-income riders who are elderly or disabled.
The House voted unanimously Thursday to approve the $3.4 million program for the no-fare bus passes.
It was a rare subject of agreement between Republicans and Democrats in the Democratic-controlled legislative chamber.
The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority ended its no-fare passes in February and began charging those riders a discounted 50-cent fare, plus 25 cents for transfers. Anti-poverty advocates wanted the free rides restored to help some of the state’s most vulnerable people.
The vote came as part of the House’s broader deliberations over a $9.2 billion state budget plan for the upcoming fiscal year. It must still be considered by the state Senate.
