Thanks to DRC advocacy, Clipper Card for attendants available to Bay Area transit riders with disabilities
In June 2010, the Bay Area's Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) instituted the Clipper card, which a passenger can use with all 7 transit agencies in the Bay Area. The MTC plans to replace all paper tickets with the Clipper card. However, there was no adequate provision for attendant travel under the new “Clipper Card” program.
Disability Rights California staff testified in November 2010 and March 2011 before the MTC on this issue. The Commissioners noted our testimony, and asked the transit agencies to find a way to provide two RTC/Clipper cards for people with disabilities who require attendants while traveling.
After considerable internal debate, the Transit Agencies agreed to issue “Clipper Attendant Cards”. For individuals who already have a discounted Clipper Card from the RTC, the whole process can be completed by mail with a $3.00 fee, by filling out an application which will be mailed to them. Those applying for the RTC disability discount Clipper Card can ask at the same time for the additional Attendant Discounted Card. There is a $3.00 fee for each card.
MTC reports that they will monitor usage of the “Discounted Attendant Cards” and track discrepancies in usage between the main card holder and the attendant card. Any fraudulent use may result in forfeiture of the transit cards.
The new system is scheduled to go into effect the week of October 1, 2011.
(Photo at top) DRC staff attorney Fred Nisen (seated) and volunteer attorney Bill Hershon with Clipper Cards at Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) station. Photo by Joey Gallardo