No Free Rides Act of 2026
Sponsored By: Representative Perry
Introduced
Summary
Ban on universal fare-free transit for federally assisted agencies. The bill bars recipients of federal transit assistance from offering a universal fare-free system while allowing targeted free or reduced fares for certain groups and a waiver if the agency secures dedicated non-federal operating revenue.
Show full summary
- Seniors, low-income riders, students, and employees paid for through an agreement can still be offered free or reduced fares under targeted policies.
- Transit agencies that receive assistance under this chapter may not make fares free for all riders. They may apply for a waiver if they identify a dedicated non-federal source to cover ongoing operating costs.
- Local governments or private partners must provide the dedicated operating revenue to qualify for a waiver and support a universal fare-free program.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
No universal free public transit
If enacted, transit agencies that get federal grants would not be able to make their whole system free for everyone. Agencies could still offer free or reduced fares only to specific groups such as seniors, low-income riders, students, or when an employer or organization pays for rides. The Transportation Secretary could waive the ban if an agency finds a dedicated non-Federal operating revenue source for a systemwide free program. This rule would take effect upon enactment.
Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Perry
PA • R
Cosponsors
Moore (AL)
AL • R
Sponsored 3/5/2026
Roy
TX • R
Sponsored 3/5/2026
Higgins (LA)
LA • R
Sponsored 3/5/2026
Gill (TX)
TX • R
Sponsored 3/5/2026
Harris (NC)
NC • R
Sponsored 3/5/2026
Steil
WI • R
Sponsored 3/5/2026
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
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