Bill Expands Commuter Transit Access

The General Assembly’s Transportation Committee is reviewing legislation designed to expand commuter access to transit services.

SB 9 proposes changes to Connecticut’s commuter incentive programs and continues funding for on-demand microtransit services. 

The legislation focuses on workforce access by addressing one of the most persistent barriers to employment—reliable transportation. 

A key provision of SB 9 lowers the eligibility threshold for Connecticut’s traffic reduction program from 100 employees to five employees. 

This adjustment significantly expands access to the program for small and mid-sized businesses.

Eligibility Threshold

With approximately 94% of firms in the state having fewer than 100 employees, the previous threshold restricted eligibility to a smaller group of employers. 

By reducing the threshold, SB 9 allows more employers to invest in commuter strategies that reduce single-occupancy vehicle trips while improving employees’ ability to get to work consistently. 

The tax credit provides: 

• 50% reimbursement of eligible traffic reduction program costs 

• A cap of $250 per participating employee annually 

• A $1.5 million statewide cap 

Workforce Access 

For small businesses in particular, transportation barriers can directly affect hiring and retention.

Expanding eligibility aligns with broader efforts this session to support small business affordability. 

When employees lack reliable transportation, businesses struggle to fill open positions, and workforce participation declines.

“Transportation is often the deciding factor for whether someone can accept or keep a job.”

CBIA’s Danielle Cloud

SB 9 takes a voluntary, incentive-based approach to help employers implement solutions that improve access to jobs. 

“Transportation is often the deciding factor for whether someone can accept or keep a job,” CBIA policy director Danielle Cloud said.

“Expanding commuter incentives and investing in flexible transit options gives employers practical tools to strengthen hiring, retention, and overall workforce participation.” 

Microtransit Pilot 

SB 9 also extends Connecticut’s microtransit pilot program from two years to three years and appropriates $9 million from the Special Transportation Fund for its continuation. 

Microtransit services use app-based, shared-ride vehicles that operate flexibly based on rider demand.

These services help bridge first- and last-mile gaps, particularly in areas where traditional fixed bus routes are limited or unavailable. 

Extending the pilot allows the state additional time to evaluate performance, gather data, and determine how microtransit can best complement the broader transportation network.

These services can mean the difference between accessing employment or remaining disconnected.

For many workers these services can mean the difference between accessing employment or remaining disconnected from job opportunities. 

Reliable transportation supports labor force participation and business productivity.

By expanding commuter tax credit eligibility and continuing investment in flexible transit solutions, the bill aligns transportation policy with the needs of today’s employers and employees. 

Policies that strengthen workforce access are central to Connecticut’s competitiveness. 

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For more information, contact CBIA’s Danielle Cloud (860.244.1911).