As public transport becomes more relevant in today's society and carbon emissions become an increasingly important issue, supporting the use of public transit systems is necessary. Transportation is currently the leading cause of greenhouse emissions in the US, contributing around 29% of the country’s total emissions, and 21% of global emissions. 

AB610 is a bill that would allow California students 18 or younger to acquire public transit passes for access to free public transportation. The bill would allow a Youth Transit Pass Pilot Program to be created so that transit agencies can start developing the system for the transit passes to be created and administered. 

Although for many citizens cars are the most efficient vehicle for daily use, this bill aims to make public transport a more viable option. This would greatly decrease the number of vehicles on the road, in turn reducing emissions overall.

Despite lack of efficiency and affordability, around half of U.S students do take publicly funded transportation to school. In addition to its positive effects on the environment, this program would reduce costs for the millions of students who need this daily access to transportation. This would lessen disparities for those who struggle to pay for public transport or do not have access to their own vehicles.

AB610 will benefit students and families around the country, and hopefully slow the generation of emissions that are harming our planet. Act now as the legislative season is coming to an end!!