Bill would give federal employees transit subsidies

Rep. Frank R. Wolf, R-Va., has introduced legislation calling for President Clinton to issue an executive order providing federal employees in the Washington area with $65 per month in transit subsidies.

Wolf said the executive order would reduce traffic congestion by providing transit and car pool benefits. The order would also require the creation of a shuttle service between mass transit stops and federal agencies, expand existing telecommuting programs, and encourage employees to bike or walk to work.

Less than 20 percent of the federal workforce is now eligible for transit subsidies.

"The simple fact that this order would reduce traffic congestion is reason enough to sign it," said Wolf., "But perhaps even more importantly, it would take us one step further in helping to improve our air quality, thereby improving public health."

The White House has been considering an executive order on transit subsidies for several months. The legislation would require that the order be issued.

The Office of Management and Budget did not immediately respond Thursday to a request for comment.

Washington, along with Los Angeles and Atlanta, experiences some of the nation's worst commuter traffic congestion.