The days of free bus and train rides for all seniors in Illinois could be numbered.
The Illinois House has overwhelmingly approved a measure to withdraw that perk for better-off seniors. Free rides would remain for poorer residents. And even those who would have to pay something would only have to pay half price.
The bill would keep free rides for seniors whose maximum income is around $27,600 annually and $36,600 for a two-person household.
Chicago's transit agencies say ending the freebies — started by former Gov. Rod Blagojevich — could generate up to $37 million for their cash-strapped services.
The Senate must still approve the legislation and Gov. Pat Quinn would have to sign it before it becomes law.
Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.
The Illinois House has overwhelmingly approved a measure to withdraw that perk for better-off seniors. Free rides would remain for poorer residents. And even those who would have to pay something would only have to pay half price.
The bill would keep free rides for seniors whose maximum income is around $27,600 annually and $36,600 for a two-person household.
Chicago's transit agencies say ending the freebies — started by former Gov. Rod Blagojevich — could generate up to $37 million for their cash-strapped services.
The Senate must still approve the legislation and Gov. Pat Quinn would have to sign it before it becomes law.
Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.
