by Donald Eng
HARTFORD, CT — Veterans and students could soon find getting around less expensive after Gov. Ned Lamont announced that the state budget proposal he presented to the Connecticut General Assembly last week includes the funding necessary 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 throughout the state.
Additionally, the proposal includes funding to provide K-12 students with a 50% discount on CTtransit buses.
The $3.5 million investment recognizes the important service of the nation’s veterans, while also acknowledging the mobility needs of young students, Lamont said. The proposal is currently being considered 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.”
Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said providing discounted bus fares for students and veterans isn’t just about increasing affordability, it was also about access.
“Reliable transportation ensures people can reach essential destinations like health care, jobs, and school,” he said.
Under the proposal, the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs would be responsible for issuing free bus passes to veterans. Veterans Affairs Commissioner Ron Welch said many veterans struggle with transportation to things like medical appointments, jobs and even grocery stores.
“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,” he said.
Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker said students had transit needs too.
“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,” she said.