Whereas the BC Governments fare-free transit program for youth aged 12 and under grade 6 saves families money while offering youth low-carbon transportation that helps the province and municipalities reach carbon neutrality targets; And whereas expanding eligibility to those aged 13 and under grade 7 would reduce the current disparity between the have fare-free and those who have not within middle schools: Therefore be it resolved that the UBCM endorse a request that the Province of BC expands the fare-free transit program for youth aged 13 and under grade 7.
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure The Provinces Free Transit for Children 12 and Under program is making transit more affordable for families while helping to rebuild transit ridership following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ministry, BC Transit, TransLink and local government partners are continuing to gain experience with the program, and are monitoring its performance and measuring outcomes. Lessons learned from the current program will help inform future decisions on any potential changes.