In Bellingham, WA, the decision to no longer accept physical Western ID Cards as valid fare for bus rides starting June 23, 2025, will disproportionately affect students from lower-income families. I believe this is an unnecessary step in creating a larger divide in their educational experience.

Central to this issue is the requirement for students to use the Umo Mobility app and redeem a quarterly benefit code to access public transportation. Not all students have access to smartphones capable of running this app reliably. Consequently, this change threatens to highlight and exacerbate socio-economic disparities, making it clearer than ever who is unable to afford a suitable device for such necessities as transportation.

Data suggests that a significant portion of students rely on public transport to attend school, extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, and essential errands. Not having access to a card may inhibit student mobility even if they have a phone, but it died earlier that day.

Western Students urge local authorities and transit officials to reconsider this policy. A more inclusive approach would be to continue accepting physical ID cards as valid fare alongside the new digital system. This would ensure that all students, regardless of economic background, have equal access to the necessary resources for a fulfilling educational experience.

Please support this petition to maintain fairness and accessibility in our public transportation system for all students in Bellingham. Your signature can help bridge the gap and advocate for an equitable solution for everyone. Sign now to ensure no student is left behind due to this digital policy change.