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The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is likely to implement a fare hike effective July 1, according to the LA Times. Facing a $204-million hole in their operating budget, MTA believes the added revenue will help, and estimates it will lower the deficit to $180 million.
The proposed increases are as follows: One-way fare will be $1.50 (from $1.25), Day Pass will be $6 (from $5), and a Monthly Pass will be $75 (from $62). MTA says they do not plan to increase fares for students, the elderly, Medicare recipients, or people with disabilities. The fee increase would be effective July 1.
If the fare increase is approved, MTA says they plan to implement other cost-cutting measures, including staff cuts and agency reorganization. The MTA board is expected to discuss the fare increases at their meeting tomorrow, and "decide whether to hold a special hearing in May to explain to the public why transit officials believe the increase is necessary."