What happens on “Code Red” days when transportation is free?

When the air quality index is likely to contain unhealthy levels of ozone it may be declared a CODE RED day. When this happens a ride on your local bus may be free. Local governments subsidize this free ride program to encourage people to leave their cars at home and cut down on pollution. Look for a sign on the bus that says "Code Red Day, Ride Free" (or something similar) and has the fare box covered. Any time the amount of Transit Benefit you receive exceeds the amount you need, you must adjust. When you pick up the Transit Benefit the following month, you must adjust your amount by the number of days that were designated Code Red” Example: You have certified your estimated commuting cost is $5.00 per day, or $100.00 per month. There were three “Code Red” days and you were able to ride the bus free. The next time you receive a Transit Benefit, you must request $85.00, having reduced by the amount of Transit Benefit left over from last time.

Note 1: When your actual commuting expense still exceeds the statutory limit you are not required to reduce to account for days on which you did not pay to commute.

Note 2: Users of certain electronic fare media, including the TRAN Serve Debit Card and the WMATA SmarTrip ®  card are not required to return unused funds. Unused funds are automatically returned to you Agency at the end of each monthly funding cycle.