María Jesús Montero, the Minister of Finance and Public Function, announced on Tuesday that subscriptions to Renfe Cercanías, Rodalies, and Media Distancia will remain free for 2023. The statement came during a press conference following the government cabinet meeting where the General State Budget proposals were given the green light for the coming year.
In the briefing, Montero explained that the measure would not only be extended but also monitored as a structural policy aimed at sustainability and reducing pollutant emissions. The objective is to encourage the use of public transport over private cars, aligning with environmental goals and energy independence.
The General State Budget plan includes a 700 million euro allocation for the Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda. Much of this funding supports the free transport initiative, with the current proposal representing an increase of around 41.2 percent compared with the previous year. The funds will be centralized around the 700 million euro mark to maximize impact across the rail network involved.
Montero noted that the immediate focus is on the current policy for Cercanías (Rodalies in Catalonia) and Media Distancia services operated by Renfe, a public company under the Ministry of Transport. The plan also mentions a potential extension of the 30 percent discount on city transportation cards, with further studies anticipated to determine feasibility and timing.
Transport Minister Raquel Sánchez commented on social media that the General State Budget for 2023 would continue to push public transport as a means to reduce emissions, lower energy dependence, and ease financial pressures on families. The message underscored the government’s commitment to sustainable mobility alongside economic relief for households.
In the first month of operation, the program showed notable usage. September data indicated 1.5 million free vouchers issued, with journeys on Media Distancia trains increasing by 40 percent year over year and Cercanías rail trips rising by 24 percent. These early figures suggest meaningful behavioral shifts toward rail travel as a preferred mode of transport.
Environmental impact estimates from the government reflect substantial savings: approximately 118 million liters of gasoline would be avoided, and up to 360,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions could be prevented when these trips would otherwise be car-based. The program’s early success supports the case for continuing funding and potential expansion in line with climate and mobility goals.
Young hire bonus
The minister also indicated that the junior lease support program is set to be consolidated in 2023 with an allocated budget of 200 million euros. Montero also highlighted an accessible rental program with a 260 million euro budget as part of the housing strategy for the same period.
Overall, the government outlined a total package of 3.472 billion euros directed toward the housing and urban development sector, reflecting a 5.4 percent increase in resources. The youth rental bonus provides a monthly grant of 250 euros for two years to individuals aged 18 to 35 who earn less than three times the Iprem threshold and rent a home at or below 600 euros per month, with expansion options up to 900 euros depending on regional needs. Room rentals can be subsidized up to 300 euros monthly, with potential increases to 450 euros in certain contexts.