An Act to establish free access to ride to elections in Massachusetts (FARE)
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill, titled the Free Access to Ride to Elections in Massachusetts (FARE) Act, aims to provide free public transportation to Massachusetts residents on days when primary and general elections are held. The goal is to increase voter access by removing transportation barriers, particularly for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle. The legislation seeks to ensure that all eligible voters can easily reach polling locations.
Key provisions
- Provides free public transportation on primary and election days.
- Covers state-sponsored public transportation systems.
- Aims to increase voter turnout.
- Transportation is provided by the state.
- The bill was referred to the House Committee on Transportation.
- The bill was subsequently referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.
- The Senate concurred with the House version of the bill.
- A hearing is scheduled for September 16, 2025.
Who is affected
- Massachusetts voters
- Public transportation riders
- Low-income individuals
- Residents without personal vehicles
- Individuals with limited transportation options
Notable changes
- This bill establishes a program for free public transportation during elections.
- It builds upon previous attempts to address transportation barriers to voting (H.3547, H.4095, H.3384, H.831).
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
2 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsor
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