Description
Title: Approve a resolution directing the City Manager to coordinate with CapMetro and Travis County to explore the cost, possible cost sharing, and feasibility of continuing fare-free voting, which would provide waived transit fares for riders on Election Day during the 2026 general election, as well as the opportunity to expand fare-free voting to additional days during the early voting period.
Summary
The City of Austin's resolution (File ID: 26-1895) focuses on enhancing voter access by exploring the continuation of fare-free public transit on Election Day and potentially expanding this initiative to early voting periods. This effort arises from concerns about recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions that have undermined voting rights, particularly for African-American voters, and rising transportation costs that may hinder voter turnout. The resolution mandates the City Manager to collaborate with Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority (CapMetro) and Travis County to assess the feasibility and costs of this program. The goal is to ensure equitable access to voting, reflecting the City Council's commitment to protecting voting rights and facilitating participation in elections.