There has been an increase in senior ridership on the public transportation systems since the advent of the free pass. Now, State Rep. Suzie Bassi and others argue that, by taking away the free rides, the system will be gaining millions of dollars.

Has she considered that most of these seniors do not have to ride, but do so because they are free rides. So, there is no guarantee that these riders will be converted into paying rides- many will just quit riding.

Also, many of the people who pay full fare do so because they ride the train to go to and from work so transportation fees help them to make money. This is not true of senior citizens, who, for the most part, are retired.

Sharon F. Kissane

South Barrington