This bill amends Section 39-18-9 of the General Laws in Chapter 39-18 entitled "Rhode Island Public Transit Authority." The amendment authorizes the authority to fix and revise schedules of service and rates of fare and charges for service. It specifies that these schedules and rates shall not be subject to supervision or regulation by any commission, board, bureau, or agency of the state or any municipality or political subdivision, except as provided in another section of the law. The amendment also requires any changes in frequency of services, providers of service, and charges for service to be presented for comment in at least one public hearing scheduled in each affected county. The amendment further states that the authority may pledge funds or property received or to be received to pay the principal and interest on its bonds.

The bill also adds a new subsection (b) to Section 39-18-9, which declares that the authority shall not impose any fares and/or charges for service provided to the general public. This provision would take effect on January 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
5622: 39-18-9