Exclusive
DOT wants to prohibit free buses. That could be a problem for Mamdani in NYC.

A proposal from the Trump administration would restrict federal funding for cities that don't charge fares.

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Then-New York Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani steps off the M57 bus on his way to a press conference on Oct. 8, 2025, in New York City. | Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images

By Chris Marquette
02/03/2026 04:36 PM EST

The Trump administration wants to stop large cities that receive federal funds from providing free bus transit, a move that would hit programs across the country — and could be a setback to New York City, in particular.

The Transportation Department is hoping its proposal, obtained by POLITICO, will be part of an upcoming surface transportation bill, which requires congressional approval.

The proposal applies to transportation agencies located in areas with populations over 200,000 and a fleet of more than 100 buses. That could affect transit systems in the Kansas City metro area; Richmond, Virginia; and Albuquerque, New Mexico, all of which currently offer free bus rides. Kansas City, however, plans to start charging for buses in the coming months.

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Alexandria, Virginia, offers free bus service, but because it’s population is below 200,000, it would seemingly not be affected by the DOT proposal.

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