Transportation affordability is a major concern for low-income people and households across the United States. While car ownership rates remain relatively high, the associated costs — insurance, gas, and repairs can place a significant financial burden on low-income households. Even for those who own a vehicle, these costs can limit how often they use it. As a result, in Los Angeles, many low-income residents rely heavily on public transit or active transportation options. In fact, 69% of Metro bus riders report annual household incomes below $25,000.2 Despite this, there is no federal mandate to financially support the mobility needs of low-income people — besides fare discounts for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

To read the full brief, click here.

Photo by Lauren Kan on Unsplash

Photo by Yunming Wang on Unsplash

Universal basic mobility is a growing transportation concept rooted in the belief that everyone should be able to travel to the places they need — and want — to go in ways that best suit their lives and households. Reliable transportation access is essential to quality of life, yet barriers remain, especially for low-income people of color. Compared to higher-income white travelers, they often struggle to afford transportation costs and so are less likely to own cars and more likely to rely on public transit.

To read the full brief, click here.

Sharing my thoughts on the experience of being a student on a university campus. To see my full feelings about the environment UCLA students are currently experiencing please read more here.