Free transit pass program for Halifax students to continue after funding uncertainty

Source: Nova Scotia - Halifax & Regional News
Date: 2026-09-03 21:14:18.0
Tags: [Nova Scotia, Municipal, Transit, Transportation, Education]

The provincial government of Nova Scotia and the Halifax Regional Municipality reached an agreement to continue the Student Transit Pass Program for grades 7 to 12 students in the Halifax Regional Municipality through August 31, 2027, resolving months of funding uncertainty following the province's initial $1.2-million funding adjustment. The Department of Opportunities and Social Development is contributing $600,000 to fund passes for over 1,700 youth connected to Employment Support and Income Assistance, while providing $500,000 for public school students requiring school bus alternatives across five high schools. The Halifax Regional Municipality is funding the remaining passes for grades 7 through 12 students, which will be distributed via Halifax Transit’s HFXGO mobile app and expanded to include private school and homeschooled students.