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Proposed Changes to Free Rides for Seniors Advances
All senior citizens have the benefit of free rides with the Regional Transportation Authority and the Chicago Transit Authority, but that may not last. State Sen. Ricky Hendon (D-Chicago) is sponsoring legislation to conduct means tests for seniors who benefit from free rides.

Hendon says he supports free rides for all seniors but understands those who can afford to pay should. The bill requires seniors to meet certain income standards to qualify for the free rides. The requirements are broken down by household:

* One-person household income must not exceed 150 percent of circuit breaker program poverty level, or about $41,000.

* Two-person household income must not exceed 150 percent of circuit breaker program poverty level, or about $54,000.

* Three-person household income must not exceed 125 percent of circuit breaker program poverty level, or about $57,000.

State Senate Minority Leader Christine Rodogno (R-Lemont) sponsored similar legislation last month, but it failed in committee. Rodogno voted for Hendon's bill but says it should go further. She fears the bill may be changed or shelled out in the House.

HB 4623 passed the Senate 57-0. It now heads to the House for concurrence.

(Illinois Radio Network)
05 06 10 by Newsroom
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