Senator Cohen Leads Passage of Legislation to Support Commuters and Expand Microtransit Services

HARTFORD — Senator Christine Cohen (D-Guilford), Senate Chair of the Transportation Committee, led passage Friday of legislation to reduce the cost of commuting for Connecticut workers, dedicate funding to maintain Shore Line East rail operations and increase service, and expand public transportation options in communities across the state.

“I am so pleased to have led this bill through the Senate because affordable transportation is the foundation of a strong economy,” Senator Cohen said. “This legislation gives employers a real incentive to help their workers with the cost of commuting, maintains vital funding for Shore Line East to increase service, keeps our microtransit pilot moving forward and provides free bus fares for our veterans and high school students so that more communities have access to reliable public transportation. Senate Bill 9 helps to build a transportation system that works for everyone and I can’t wait to see it benefit Connecticut commuters.”

Senate Bill 9 establishes a tax credit for Connecticut employers who provide commuter benefits to their workers. Eligible employers must operate a licensed business in the state, employ at least five workers in Connecticut, and provide a qualifying commuter transportation benefit to at least one participating employee pursuant to a commuter benefit plan approved by the Commissioner of Transportation.

The credit is available for the first five income years in which an employer provides qualifying benefits under an approved plan, starting at 25% of total commuter benefit expenditures in the first year and declining to 5% by the fifth year. The total amount of credits under this program shall not exceed $7.5 million. The credit takes effect for income years beginning on or after January 1, 2027.

The legislation directs the Commissioner of Transportation to develop a public awareness campaign, in consultation with chambers of commerce and business advocacy organizations, to ensure employers know the new credit is available.

The legislation also dedicates $7 million to maintain Shore Line East rail operations, including $3 million for service enhancements in fiscal year 2027.

Additionally, Senate Bill 9 extends the state’s microtransit pilot program for another year and requires the Department of Transportation to report back to the legislature and make recommendations on the program by January, 2028. The pilot tests multi-passenger microtransit services in communities across Connecticut, including rural areas not currently served by public transportation.