By Tiffany Williams –
Hartford, Connecticut — Governor Ned Lamont announced that the state budget proposal he presented to the Connecticut General Assembly last week includes funding to provide U.S. military veterans with free passes to use Connecticut’s network of public bus services, including CTtransit, CTfastrak, and various transit districts statewide.
The proposal also includes funding to provide K-12 students with a 50% discount on CTtransit buses. Lamont said the $3.5 million investment is intended to recognize the service of veterans while addressing the transportation needs of students. The proposal is currently under consideration by the legislature’s Appropriations Committee.
“Our veterans have provided so much to every person in our country, and this is another way we can show how much we appreciate and value their service,” Lamont said. “Connecticut has a strong network of bus services statewide, and enabling our veterans to use them at no cost is something we should enact.”
If approved, the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs would be responsible for issuing the free bus passes to eligible veterans.
“Providing discounted bus fares for students and veterans isn’t just about increasing affordability, it’s about access,” Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said. “Reliable transportation ensures people can reach essential destinations like health care, jobs, and school. I appreciate Governor Lamont for introducing this proposal as transit services continue to play a critical role in our communities.”
“On behalf of our 153,000 Connecticut veterans, we thank Governor Lamont for this proposal that will allow veterans to access bus transportation through free passes provided by the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs,” Connecticut Veterans Affairs Commissioner Ron Welch said. “We know many veterans struggle with transportation to get to medical appointments, employment opportunities, and in some cases even a grocery store. These bus passes will provide veterans with the ability to meet the demands of their everyday lives while also providing an opportunity to actively engage in their communities. We thank Governor Lamont for this initiative that will ensure the overall well-being of veterans across our state.”
“Providing students with a discount on public bus services helps increase access to positive youth development opportunities, such as after-school activities, summer enrichment, and community-based programs,” Connecticut Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker said.