Trump’s New Ban Hurts Mamdani
The Trump administration is weighing a major crackdown on so-called “fare-free” bus programs in large U.S. cities that receive federal transit funding — a move that could directly derail New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s pledge to make all city buses permanently free.
According to a draft proposal from the U.S. Department of Transportation, the policy is being considered for inclusion in the next surface transportation reauthorization bill, meaning Congress would ultimately have final approval. The proposal was first reported by Politico.
If adopted, the rule would apply to transit agencies serving metropolitan areas with populations of more than 200,000 residents and operating bus fleets larger than 100 vehicles. Under the draft language, agencies that accept funding from the Federal Transit Administration would be required to charge fares for bus service.
Cities that refuse to comply could face the loss of critical federal transportation dollars.
Cities Offering Free Bus Service Could Be Impacted
Several cities that currently operate fare-free bus programs could be affected, including parts of the Kansas City metropolitan area, Richmond, Virginia, and Albuquerque, New Mexico. Kansas City officials have already indicated they plan to reinstate fares in the near future, citing concerns about long-term funding and system stability.
The issue has become especially political in New York City, where Mayor Mamdani campaigned heavily on affordability and promised to eliminate fares on all city buses. That pledge was publicly dismissed this week by Metropolitan Transportation Authority CEO Janno Lieber, who referred to the proposal as a “campaign bumper sticker” during a legislative budget hearing in Albany.
Trump Administration Cites Safety and Financial Concerns
The Department of Transportation’s proposal emphasizes fiscal responsibility and public safety. The draft warns that fare-free transit programs can lead to unsustainable budgets and increased disorder, particularly in large urban systems.
According to the document, several transit agencies that eliminated fares reported a rise in disruptive behavior, placing added strain on drivers, riders, and law enforcement resources.
“This policy would help ensure that the nation’s largest federally supported transit systems remain safer and more adequately funded by users,” the proposal states.
Limited Exceptions Still Allowed
The draft includes targeted exemptions that would allow free or reduced fares for specific groups, including seniors, veterans, students, children, and individuals with disabilities. Temporary fare waivers could also be permitted during major international events such as the World Cup or the Olympic Games.
That provision stands out as the 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to be hosted across multiple U.S. cities with major transit systems, including Kansas City, Philadelphia, and the New York–New Jersey region. The 2028 Summer Olympics will take place in Los Angeles.
Even so, the transportation bill itself is not expected to be finalized before the World Cup begins.
Democrats Push Back as Debate Heats Up
Democrats on Capitol Hill have criticized the proposal, arguing that local transit agencies should retain control over their operations. Rep. Rick Larsen of Washington, the ranking Democrat on the House Transportation Committee, called the plan unnecessary and accused federal officials of overreach.
Supporters of fare-free transit argue that eliminating fares boosts ridership and improves access to jobs and essential services. Some academic researchers point to increased usage in cities that experimented with free buses.
However, the Trump administration’s approach reflects a broader focus on accountability, public safety, and ensuring that taxpayer-funded programs are financially sustainable rather than open-ended entitlements.
As lawmakers prepare to debate the next transportation funding package, the future of fare-free bus programs in America’s largest cities is shaping up to be another flashpoint in the ongoing fight over federal spending, urban policy, and government oversight.
