This bill designates February 4, 2025, as "Transit Equity Day" to honor Rosa Parks and promote equitable access to public transit for all, recognizing its importance for social justice, accessibility, and combating climate change.
Valerie Foushee
Representative
NC-4
This bill recognizes February 4, 2025, as "Transit Equity Day" to honor Rosa Parks and highlight the importance of equitable access to public transit. It acknowledges the ongoing disparities in transit access based on race, income, and disability, while promoting affordable, reliable public transit and its role in combating climate change. The bill encourages the use of public transportation and applauds transit agencies offering fare-free rides on Transit Equity Day.
House Resolution Backs 'Transit Equity Day' Feb 4, 2025, Pushing for Fair and Accessible Public Transportation
This resolution throws its weight behind making February 4, 2025, "Transit Equity Day." It's all about honoring Rosa Parks' legacy and pushing for public transit that's fair and accessible to everyone, regardless of race, income, or disability. It also connects the dots between public transit and fighting climate change.
Riding Towards Fairness
The resolution directly calls out the ongoing issue of unequal access to public transit. It emphasizes that affordable and reliable buses, trains, and paratransit services are absolutely essential. Think about a nurse working the late shift who can't afford a car, or a student with a disability trying to get to class. This is where reliable and accessible public transit makes a real difference. The resolution specifically mentions paratransit services (Section 1), highlighting their importance for people with disabilities who might not be able to use regular fixed-route services.
Beyond Just Getting Around
It's not just about getting from point A to point B. The resolution also links accessible public transit to bigger issues like social justice and climate change. By encouraging more people to use public transit, we can reduce emissions and work towards a more sustainable future. The document specifically calls out the role of public transit in combating climate change (Section 2).
What Happens Next?
This resolution isn't just a statement; it's a call to action. It encourages transit agencies to consider offering fare-free rides on Transit Equity Day. It also directs the Clerk of the House to send copies of the resolution to specific individuals involved in transit advocacy (Section 3), likely to help coordinate efforts and raise awareness. While this resolution doesn't create new laws or funding, it sets a clear priority and could influence future policy decisions. The challenge will be turning this symbolic support into concrete improvements in transit systems across the country.