Veterans to ride buses in Suffolk County from $1.50 to $.75 for a period of one year
 
(Hauppauge, NY) At the August 7th General Meeting, the Suffolk County Legislature voted to direct the Department of Public Works to implement a bus fare reduction for veterans. The resolution lowers the charge for veterans to ride buses in Suffolk County from $1.50 to $.75 for a period of one year.  “After meeting with veterans who could not afford to traverse Suffolk County, it became clear that this reduction was necessary.  It is the least we can do for the brave men and women who have defended our freedom,” said Legislator Tom Muratore (R-Ronkonkoma), who sponsored the resolution.
 
The bill also directs the Department of Public Works to study the effect of the cost reduction along with the amount of veterans who ride the Suffolk County bus system.  “This will allow the Legislature to get feedback as to whether this reduction will increase ridership and determine how many veterans currently ride the buses,” stated Muratore.
 
Other Legislators also felt there was a need for the decreased fare.   Legislator Jay Schneiderman, a co-sponsor of the bill said, “This is a small token of our appreciation for those who have so bravely served our nation.”  Legislator Steve Stern, Chairman of the Veterans and Seniors Committee, stated, “I have the privilege of working with and for our veterans. We owe them not just our gratitude but meaningful support.  I am proud to join Legislator Muratore in providing fare relief to our veterans.”
 
“I certainly appreciate the support of my colleagues regarding this legislation.  While we may disagree on other issues, it is clear that we are all united in our support for our veterans here in Suffolk County” said Muratore.