C.R.S. § 43-1-1701: Legislative declaration.

(1) The general assembly finds and declares that:

(a) Public transportation is essential to the health, economic well-being, and mobility of all Coloradans and provides access to employment, education, health care, and other essential community resources;

(b) Despite the vital role of transit, many individuals face significant barriers to accessing public transportation, including fare costs, a lack of clear information, and insufficient amenities;

(c) Increasing transit access and efficiency is necessary to ensure that public transportation is accessible, affordable, and inclusive. Transit providers must offer services that treat every rider with respect and dignity, provide high-quality service, and apply equity principles to all operations. Efficiency in transit operations is also critical to mitigating conflicts between operators and riders by improving the reliability and effectiveness of service.

(d) Well-designed and efficient transit systems make it easier for individuals to choose public transportation, thereby increasing ridership and helping Colorado meet its climate goals. In 2024, Colorado transit agencies reported a combined total of one hundred four million nine hundred eleven thousand six hundred fifteen unlinked passenger trips. Expanding equitable access to transit services will further enhance ridership, system sustainability, and environmental benefits.

(e) Ensuring equitable access to public transportation is a shared responsibility among the state, local governments, transit agencies, and communities. This part 17 represents a step toward providing transit services that are safe, efficient, accessible, and inclusive, which promotes social and economic mobility, environmental sustainability, and the overall well-being of Coloradans.

(2) Therefore, the general assembly further finds and declares that:

(a) Promoting transit access, efficiency, and quality service for all transit users, while increasing ridership to help meet climate goals, are matters of both local and statewide concern;

(b) The policies in this part 17 are intended to ensure fairness, accessibility, and dignity in public transportation throughout the state; and

(c) The state intends to collect data and require reporting on this part 17 to inform future transit access policy.