Scutari, Cryan Bill to Reduce NJ Transit Fares for Access Link Riders Passes Senate

Trenton – Legislation that would reduce fares for NJ Transit Access Link riders passed the Senate this week. The legislation is sponsored by Senators Nicholas Scutari and Joseph Cryan.

“Many individuals who utilize Access Link’s services are living on fixed incomes, said Senator Scutari (D-Middlesex/Somerset/Union). “This piece of legislation allows riders to travel on bus and rail at a greatly discounted rate, greatly benefitting riders with disabilities who rely on public transportation as their main source of mobility.”

The bill, S-1563, would automatically enroll individuals determined eligible for NJ Transit Access Link services into a reduced fare program applicable for all of NJ Transit’s bus, train, and light rail services. The bill would require NJ Transit to issue an identification card for reduced fare eligibility to Access Link riders.

“Access Link riders depend on public transportation for their essential travel needs, and this legislation would help many riders with disabilities, including disabled veterans, to save money every time they ride,” said Senator Cryan (D-Union).

The NJ Transit reduced-fare program is currently available for people with disabilities, but to take part in the program, you must apply through NJ Transit. This bill will streamline the process.

The program allows personal assistants to ride for free with proper identification.

Access Link is a paratransit service established by NJ Transit to provide public transportation to people with disabilities who are unable to use the local bus service according to the American with Disabilities Act (ADA).

According to NJ Transit, Access Link provided 1.25 million rides to people with disabilities in fiscal year 2015.