Calls to Expand Free Public Transport for School-Aged Children
A prominent member of the State Duma believes it is time to revisit the proposal to provide free travel on public transport for all children under 18 in Moscow. The suggestion would require an allocation of 3.5 billion rubles, a share of about 0.5 percent of the city’s transport budget, according to the deputy speaking at the NSN press centre.
The proposal notes that currently students up to the fourth grade enjoy free travel within the capital. The advocate argues that this benefit should extend to all younger residents, not just the youngest students.
The deputy recalls a period when school children could travel for free on public transport and notes positive outcomes from that era. He observed increased participation in city clubs and programs, along with more families enrolling children in branches located farther from home. This anecdote is cited to underscore potential social and educational benefits of broader free transit access.
According to the deputy, implementing free travel for schoolchildren would not be limited to Moscow. He asserts that a nationwide approach is warranted and could support broader access to education and community activities across the country.
The discussion aligns with prior statements from the State Duma urging free travel for students. Critics have pointed out that current policies already provide substantial discounts, typically in the range of fifty to sixty percent, on transit fares.
Historical context is also noted with a previously passed law in the State Duma concerning free travel for school and child transit on toll roads. This background is cited to illustrate the long-standing interest in easing transportation costs for young riders and families.