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Lawmakers hear strong support and practical concerns for fare‑free transit; HB2451 deferred for more work
Summary
HB2451, which would require counties to provide fare‑free public transit and create a dedicated fund, drew broad support from advocates and health groups but the city transportation director warned implementation by 2027 would strain fleet, staffing and funding; committee deferred the bill to allow logistics and funding details to be addressed.
Advocates, public‑health organizations and environmental groups urged passage of House Bill 2451, a proposal to make county public transportation fare‑free beginning Jan. 1, 2027, while city transit officials urged a slower, phased implementation and more durable funding.
Hawaii Appleseed, the Hawaii Public Health Institute, Greenpeace and other groups testified the bill could widen access to jobs and services, cut household transportation…
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