WHEREAS, Transportation to and from school remains a significant barrier to student success in the California Community College system, with many students lacking access to affordable and reliable transit options, leading to increased dropout rates and delays in degree completion [1];
WHEREAS, Multiple California transit agencies and local governments have implemented student transit pass programs, such as the Los Angeles Metro’s GoPass and the Bay Area’s Clipper START, which have significantly reduced commuting costs and increased student ridership, demonstrating the effectiveness of subsidized transportation programs (Los Angeles Metro, 2023); and
WHEREAS, The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) has previously recommended transportation grants for low-income students, but funding remains inconsistent, and a statewide initiative to provide universal transit access for California Community College students has not yet been implemented (CSAC, 2022); Now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges advocate for legislation and funding to expand low-cost or free public transit passes for all California Community College students, including partnerships with local transit agencies, state transportation funds, and legislative support for permanent transit assistance programs;
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges work with the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, the California Student Aid Commission, and regional transit authorities to develop sustainable and equitable transit solutions, prioritizing students in rural and underserved areas;
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges advocate for the integration of transportation assistance into existing financial aid programs, ensuring that transportation costs are accounted for in cost-of-living calculations for California Community Colleges students; and
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges seek additional funding sources through state and federal grants, legislative appropriations, and private partnerships to support long-term solutions for student transportation accessibility.
Citations:
[1] Understanding Transportation Programs and Services at California Community Colleges