Rochester, N.Y. — State Sen. Jeremy Cooney unveiled a new bill Friday that aims to lower costs for commuters by authorizing the use of pre-tax earnings for the purchase of transportation benefits like bike repairs and transit passes.
Elected officials say Monroe County commuters spend between $200 and $300 a month on expenses, including gas and tolls.
Transit advocates say the bill would benefit employers by lowering payroll taxes and cutting monthly transportation expenses for their workers.
“For those who can’t afford to own a car and have to rely on public transportation,” said Mary Staropoli, co-executive director of Reconnect Rochester. “Creating this cost-saving mechanism will make commuting to work more affordable.”
Comment with Bubbles
JOIN THE CONVERSATION (1)
The bill mirrors New York City’s Commuter Benefits Law, which has been in place since 2016.