The cost of living as a college student in Pennsylvania has been rising year by year. For those students attending Community Colleges and PASSHE schools in Pennsylvania, balancing what is often a part- or full-time career with academic studies can prove to be even more difficult for students and their families.
 
With many families spending more than they can afford on these expenses, transportation can be a barrier to supporting and bettering one’s family. We must find ways to provide the assistance needed to increase access to free, safe, reliable, and accessible public transit systems.
 
I will be introducing legislation to create a grant program that would provide free public transit passes for all Community College and PASSHE students in Pennsylvania. Educational institutions would apply to the state to qualify for the funds and there would be a required match from the local educational institution.
 
This legislation would increase access to education, reduce financial stress, expand workforce access, strengthen community and economic development, reduce traffic and congestion & increase academic performance and attendance.
 
Please join me in sponsoring this important legislation.