Mayor Eric Adams and City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams have reached an agreement to expand the eligibility for the city's Fair Fares program, providing low-income New Yorkers with half-priced MetroCards. The increase in eligibility, confirmed by sources familiar with budget talks, will raise the threshold to 145% of the federal poverty line in the upcoming Fiscal Year 2025 budget.
Eligibility Expansion
While the increase is seen as a win for Speaker Adams, it falls short of the desired 200% threshold she has advocated for. The expansion will allow individuals making $21,837 annually and a family of four making $45,240 to qualify for the program.
Budget Wins
The City Council has achieved several last-minute victories in the budget cycle, including the reversal of $111 million in cuts to public libraries and cultural institutions. The baselined funding of $10 million for the Fair Fares program will bring the overall annual funding to just over $100 million.
Program Details
The Fair Fares program, which requires a MetroCard for access, is also being piloted through the OMNY tap-to-pay system for 50 eligible riders. Since its launch, 335,966 New Yorkers have enrolled in the program.
Equity Argument
City Council Finance Chair Justin Brannan and economist James Parrott have highlighted the program's importance for racial equity, as a majority of bus and subway riders are people of color. They believe expanding Fair Fares will provide greater access to economic, social, and cultural opportunities for low-income New Yorkers.
In conclusion, the expansion of eligibility for the Fair Fares program reflects a commitment to supporting vulnerable communities and promoting equity in transportation access across New York City.