Board urges SFMTA to drop proposed fare increases during COVID‑19; resolution passes 10‑1

The Board of Supervisors on April 14 adopted a resolution urging the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) to refrain from any fare increases for the FY2021–2022 budget. The resolution passed 10‑1.

Supervisor Preston introduced the measure and framed it as a request to the SFMTA board to back off fare hikes that agency staff had proposed, arguing that fare increases would fall hardest on transit‑dependent and low‑income riders during an economic crisis. Several supervisors echoed concerns that raising fares now would discourage ridership once the health crisis eases and would disproportionately affect low‑income households, seniors and people with disabilities.

Supervisor Mandelmann said he would not support the resolution because the MTA proposal included targeted protections such as maintaining reduced fares for single rides, free Muni for youth and people experiencing homelessness, and expanded reduced fares for seniors and disabled riders; he noted MTA relies on fare revenue for about 20% of its operating budget. After a lengthy debate, the resolution passed with 10 ayes and one dissent (Supervisor Mandelmann).

Why it matters: Fare policy affects accessibility and equity for transit‑dependent populations and is a material revenue source for SFMTA. The Board’s resolution asks the SFMTA board to reconsider planned changes in a period of economic disruption.

What’s next: The SFMTA board has its own budget approval process and was scheduled by staff to consider fare changes on April 21; the resolution is an expression of the Board of Supervisors’ position to the agency.