Federal funding boost targets same-day rides for disabled passengers

What does this do?

HR 8128 would incentivize transit agencies to offer same-day paratransit rides, which current ADA rules do not require. Agencies that add same-day service could receive higher federal reimbursement rates, and any agency using federal funds to buy paratransit software would have to meet new technology standards set by the Federal Transit Administration within one year of the bill's passage. Those standards would cover app accessibility, cybersecurity, real-time scheduling, and transit agency ownership of rider data.

Who does it affect?

The roughly 18 million Americans with travel-limiting disabilities, as well as older adults whose numbers are expected to grow in coming decades, are the primary people affected. Local and regional transit agencies across cities, suburbs, and rural areas would also need to adapt their technology and could restructure services to qualify for higher funding.

Why does it matter?

Transit agencies that restructure for same-day service would become eligible for substantially higher federal reimbursement, which changes the financial calculus for offering expanded service. Agencies purchasing paratransit software with federal money would face mandatory compliance with new technology standards once those standards are published.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Current federal share: 50% of operating costs
• Same-day service ops funding: 70–80%
• Equipment and vehicles: up to 90%