Senate Priority Legislation Supporting Commuters and Microtransit Passes Committee

For Immediate Release
Contact: Garnet McLaughlin – Garnet.McLaughlin@cga.ct.gov – 860-304-2319

Today, Senate Chair of the Transportation Committee State Senator Christine Cohen led committee passage of senate priority legislation that will support commuters and extend microtransit services across the state.
 
“This legislation tackles connectivity, accessibility and clean air goals while providing business-friendly tax credits that help commuters,” said Senator Christine Cohen. “Sound, inclusive and commuter-centered policies like this one really have the power to move Connecticut forward and I look forward to getting this proposal across the finish line.”
 
Senate Bill 9 allocates $10.5 million through FY 27 to extend a successful microtransit program that was first established in 2024 and serves nine transit districts and 17 municipalities in Connecticut. These programs offer accessible and affordable on-demand transportation, allowing seniors, students, the disabled community and those without personal transportation to get to their destinations safely.
 
The legislation also establishes a tax credit for businesses. Previous legislation allowed businesses with over 100 employees to create incentives for their employees to travel to work by means of carpooling, public transit or employer-based commuting alternatives. The legislation passed today lowers the threshold to 5 employees and increases the credit from $250 to $500 per employee per year. There is a statewide cap on the program of $1.5 million and the credits are offered on a first-come first-serve basis.
 
The legislation also requires the Department of Transportation (DOT) to work with local organizations like chambers of commerce to develop a public service campaign, ensuring employers are made aware of the benefit.
 
Senate Bill 9 also identifies opportunities for transit-oriented development by requiring the Department of Transportation to report back to the Transportation Committee on any state-owned land near public transportation hubs that could be developed into housing.
 
The legislation next heads to the Senate floor.