I'd support free public transit just for the benefit to low-income and unemployed folks for which it is a necessity. But for those only interested in policy that affects their day to day -there are benefits for everyone in Halifax. The Economist mentioned that if buses were free there would be less traffic congestion because of the time wasted idilling by the road waiting for commuters to board and pay. I am sure free buses would also encourage the use of public transit over cars and in a city like Halifax without designated bus lanes that would do wonders for traffic.
I hope more councillors will join in his fight to get free public transit for the people of HRM. It is sound economics that people must be able to move around freely in order to get employment. If you are low-income or unemployed then struggling with the cost of the bus pass is a huge hindrance in joining and staying in the work force.
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http://www.economist.com/blogs/gulliver/2013/06/fares