COMMUTER CHOICE BENEFITS RAISED FOR MARYLAND WORKERS, EMPLOYERS

16 May, 2002 — Washington) Environmental Defense today cheered the signing of a bill by Maryland Governor Parris Glendening that will increase tax incentives for businesses that provide transportation for workers and for programs that encourage employees to use mass transit or stop driving to work.

“Employees, businesses and the health of the public all benefit from investments in commuter programs,” said Environmental Defense transportation specialist Scot Spencer. “Increasing tax incentives for employers offsets the cost of providing van pools and other services in areas without mass transit, and businesses can pay more to those who are willing to give up their parking spot and ride, walk, bike or take the bus to work.”

Under the new new law, Maryland businesses and non-profits would be eligible for a 50% tax credit on the first $100 spent per individual, per month for employer-sponsored transit or vanpool passes, parking cash-out programs or guaranteed ride home programs. Under the previous law the benefit was capped at $60 per employee, per month.

“This program can be especially beneficial for low-income workers who may have limited choices about ways to get to work. And for those who already use transit, services like a guaranteed ride home for emergencies or overtime work provides an added level of comfort and convenience,” Spencer said.

The tax credit, which was passed earlier this year as Maryland House Bill 339, has also been added to the State Implementation Plan (SIP) for meeting the requirements of the federal Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990.

“The success of the Commuter Choice programs is a critical part of the state’s plan to meet air quality goals and there must be aggressive outreach to all those who are eligible to take part,” Spencer said.

Maryland Commuter Choice builds on national Commuter Choice programs; these programs offer financial incentives for workers not to drive solo to work. Commuter Choice relieves congestion, improves air quality and offers more equitable transportation options for America’s workforce.