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Commuter Rail Bill Would Give Free Ride On Late-Running Trains

BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts commuter rail passengers would have the right to a free ride if their train leaves late under a bill set to be heard by state lawmakers.

The legislation would bar the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority from collecting fares for commuter rail trains that depart 20 minutes or more after their originally scheduled departure time.

The bill would also bar the collection of fares from passengers in commuter rail train cars that fail to provide reasonable temperature control.

Passengers with a monthly pass would be eligible to apply for and receive cash or a check for the full cost of a one way transit ticket under the bill.

Lawmakers are scheduled to take public testimony on the bill at a Statehouse hearing Monday before the legislature's Joint Committee on Transportation.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.

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