CT SB00237

Shore Line East rail service must be restored to pre-COVID-19 levels (prior to March 10, 2020) by July 1, 2026

New bus rapid transit route required connecting Hartford to Storrs, with stations in East Hartford, Manchester, and Rockville; increased bus frequency on the Naugatuck Valley to New Haven route during peak times; and extension of the Danbury branch of the New Haven Line to New Milford

Department of Transportation must provide public notice and hearings for proposed fare increases (rather than any fare change) at least 15 days in advance, with notification to legislative committees and the Connecticut Public Transportation Council

Department of Education to administer a grant program providing free bus passes to public high school students (grades 9-12), with $3 million appropriated for fiscal year 2027 and annual reporting required starting July 1, 2027

Department of Veterans Affairs to purchase and distribute free bus passes to veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable, with $1 million appropriated for fiscal year 2027 and annual reporting required