HB1591 Summary

• Provides free public transportation fares for veterans with combined disability ratings exceeding 70% as certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, effective within 180 days of the 101st General Assembly.

• Provides 50% reduced fares for veterans with combined disability ratings between 30% and 70% as certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, effective within 180 days of the 101st General Assembly.

• Provides free public transportation fares for high school students eligible for free or reduced-price meals under the federal National School Lunch Program or Commodity School Program on school days, effective January 1, 2020.

• Establishes a continuing annual appropriation from the Road Fund beginning Fiscal Year 2020 to cover the costs of free and reduced fares, with amounts certified by each transportation participant (downstate, metropolitan, local district, suburban bus, and commuter rail authorities).

• Applies to all fixed route public transportation services provided by or contracted by Illinois transportation authorities and participants.