Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transit Policy topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Committee backs first reading of bill to expand Maui bus fare-free program
Summary
The ADEPT committee voted to recommend first reading of Bill 95-20-26, which would expand eligibility for Maui’s fare-free bus pass, allow limited fare suspensions for promotions or emergencies, and codify recent fare changes.
Chair Gabe Johnson opened the committee’s review of Bill 95-20-26, saying he drafted the measure with the administration "to promote the Maui bus ridership and to advance the climate action and resiliency plan directive" by expanding eligibility and codifying recent fare changes.
Mark Takamori, director of the County Transportation Department, told the committee the department "is fully aligned with the core vision here, promoting the Maui bus ridership, making transit more accessible, and advancing our climate action goals by encouraging choice riders to leave their cars at home." He said the department helped refine the bill language to allow limited operational flexibility.
The bill would expand the fare-free bus pass program to allow students of any age and permit Maui County employees to ride fixed routes free, and it would raise the eligibility threshold from 200% to 300% of the poverty guideline. It would also authorize the director to suspend fare enforcement for promotional events or emergency closures for no more than 14 calendar days in a fiscal year; any suspension beyond 14 days would require council approval by resolution.
After discussion about operational details and legal language, Vice Chair Shane Sinensi moved to recommend passage on first reading, Kanui Betangan seconded, staff recorded seven ayes and no nos, and the motion carried. The committee’s recommendation advances the bill to the council for the first-reading procedural step.
