Several transit-related funding and policy measures were approved during the 2023 state legislative sessions. Key provisions include:
A ¾-cent metro-area sales tax
The metro-area sales tax will help fund transit operations, maintenance and repairs, service improvements, and continued investments in public safety, zero emission buses and accessibility. The Metropolitan Council’s portion of the sales tax is expected to raise over $300 million in state fiscal year 2024 (partial year) and over $465 million in state fiscal year 2025. Sales tax revenue replaces operating funds previously provided by counties. The Met Council will adopt the 2024 operating budget and 2024-2029 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) by the end of the year.
Learn more about the Metropolitan Council’s 2024 preliminary budget
Capital investment
$72 million in state bonds will support development of the METRO F, G and H Bus Rapid Transit lines.
The Transit Rider Investment Program (TRIP)
The Transit Rider Investment Program (TRIP) allows non-police personnel to issue administrative citations for fare non-compliance. Administrative citations will replace misdemeanor citations that can only be issued by sworn police officers. The administrative citation program will be instituted after policies and procedures are adopted by the Met Council. New staff must also be hired and trained.
Transit Service Intervention Project (TSIP)
Backed by a $2 million state investment, the Transit Service Intervention Project is a coordinated effort to provide enhanced social services and Code of Conduct enforcement on transit. This initiative began on June 1 and beginning this fall will be supported by community-based organizations working under contract.
Other key provisions included in the Transportation Bill include:
The adoption of a rider Code of Conduct informed by rider feedback and widely promoted.
The adoption of cleaning and repair standards for facilities and vehicles.
The introduction of an 18-month fare-free pilot program.
The formation of a Transit Signal Priority Working Group to coordinate changes that make service faster and more reliable.
Establish a community engagement framework for the Blue Line Extension in collaboration with neighborhood groups along the corridor, and hold quarterly meetings to discuss the project’s status and anti-displacement efforts.