Released on December 5, 2011
The province has allocated nearly $850,000 in funding to renew the Discounted Bus Pass Program to the end of March 2012.
"This program is a good example of how the province and municipalities are working together to support people with lower incomes to enter or remain in the workforce and participate in community activities," Social Services Minister June Draude said. "Renewing the Discounted Bus Pass Program means that people with lower incomes in six Saskatchewan cities will continue to have affordable access to public transportation."
As part of this latest funding renewal, the province will boost its contribution per bus pass to $24 from $21, an increase of more than 14 per cent. Cities are permitted to adjust the price of the discounted bus pass, provided the price they charge to clients is kept at least $24 lower than the price of a regular monthly pass. Cities that participate in the program also help promote the discounted bus pass with the goal of increasing ridership.
The Discounted Bus Pass Program is available in Saskatoon, Regina, Prince Albert, Swift Current, Yorkton and Moose Jaw. To qualify for a discounted bus pass, individuals must be receiving benefits through the Saskatchewan Assistance Program, Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability program, Transitional Employment Allowance, Provincial Training Allowance, or Saskatchewan Employment Supplement. Approximately 67,000 monthly discounted bus passes are sold each year through the program.
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For more information, contact:
Brian Miller
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0531
Email: brian.miller3@gov.sk.ca