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Open letter to politicians regarding bus pass increases

To Premier Christy Clark, Michelle Stillwell, Don McRae and others in the Legislature, concerning the increase to Provincial Disability Income Allowance and the new BC Bus Pass Transit rules:

On behalf of the Comox Valley Accessibility Committee, I am writing to express our strong objection to the new policies regarding disability income. To say there will be a $77 increase in the monthly income of people with disabilities was welcome news, I’m sure, to many folk. And then to claw back $52 monthly, plus an annual administration fee of $45, was a real slap in the face for those who depend on the public transit Bus Pass for their transportation needs. For many people with disabilities riding the bus is an important part of their social network in addition to their shopping or medical needs. To force them to make a choice between a slightly more financially comfortable life and the freedom to travel around their community independently is grossly unfair and mean-spirited. And to say that the new policy offers people “more choice” is the worst form of political doublespeak.

We are asking your government to reverse the additional charge for the Bus Pass Program and allow people to enjoy an actual increase in their income plus continue to have the freedom to use the transit system.

Thank you for your consideration.

 

Judy Norbury

for the Comox Valley Accessibility Committee