Representative Perone Supports Eliminating Public Transportation Fees For Senior Citizens
State Rep. Chris Perone
Apr. 30, 2007

Representative Chris Perone (D-Norwalk) reiterated his support for the planned elimination of public transportation fees for the state's senior citizens Monday afternoon. A co-sponsor of the bill, Rep. Perone believes that by eliminating existing fees for senior citizens, the state may gain a valuable ally in any future attempts to improve our public transportation systems.

"By eliminating any type of fair the Office of Fiscal Analysis has determined that the state would need to increase subsidies by $9.7 million," Rep. Perone said. "I believe that, while this is a significant amount of money, the long term benefits from such a program make it more than worthwhile. After benefiting from the elimination of the fair, the state might be able to count our senior citizens as supporters of public transportation, offering a huge boost to any future attempts to pass improvements to the system."

The four main goals of the bill are as to increase senior mobility at no cost to them, increase ridership on the transit system, reduce the number of cars on the roads - alleviating congestion, fuel consumption and reducing pollution in the state – and to build a larger base of transit riders who will support future efforts to improve the system throughout the state.

Recent AARP figures indicate that one in every five senior citizens in the state does not drive. This figure comes out to approximately 100,000 individuals based on the senior population of half a million people. Currently, the Connecticut Department of Transportations states that senior ridership on both Metro-North and CT Transit makes up only about six percent of total participation.

"Most senior citizens are on fixed incomes in the form of pensions, social security and other assistance and they are watching every penny." said Rep. Perone. "This measure would help keep more money in their pocket that could be used for groceries, medication or any other necessity. Additionally, they shouldn't be concerned about whether or not they can afford to go to the grocery store or their doctor. No resident should have to feel confined to their home due to a lack of transportation access."

Rep. Christopher Perone is serving his second term representing the 137th Assembly District of Norwalk. He is Vice Chair of the Finance, Revenue & Bonding Committee, and is a member of the Education and Transportation Committees.

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