A reduced fare program refers to special programs providing particular passengers with a discounted fare option for travel on a public transport system. In the United States, public transportation systems that receive federal funding are required to offer, at minimum, half fares to the elderly and handicapped persons during off peak travel. Some transportation systems also extend reduced fare options to youth, students, military personnel, and low-income passengers. Purpose Adequate mobility is essential for individuals to participate in society as citizens, employees, students, and consumers and affects one's ability to secure employment, education, medical services, and to reach other needed destinations. Reduced fares decrease the burden of transportation expenditures. Individuals with disabilities and senior citizens United States In the United States, public transportation systems that receive federal funding are required to offer, at minimum, half fares to the older adults and people with disabilities during off-peak travel. To define an older adult, they must be 65 years of age or over but the transit authority may be more inclusive in its application. A person with a disability is defined as an individual who by reasons of illness, injury, age, congenital malfunction, or other permanent or temporary incapacity or disability, including those who use those with semi-ambulatory capabilities, are unable without special facilities or special planning or design to utilize mass transportation facilities and services as effectively as persons who are not so affected. More than one in five Americans 65 years and older do not drive because of limited physical or mental abilities, poor health, concerns about safety, or lack of access to a car. When compared with elderly drivers, non-drivers take 15 percent fewer trips to the doctor, 59 percent fewer trips to shops and restaurants, and 65 percent fewer trips for family, social, and religious activities. When public transportation is available, older Americans make regular use of it. Public transportation trips by older Americans (65 years and older) make up 6.7% of all trips, a total of over 600 million trips in 2007. In the United States, the number of older people is projected to rapidly grow, due to the aging of the Baby Boomer generation. The 65-74 age group is expected to grow 51% by 2020. As such, the number of passengers eligible for reduced fares will increase, as will the cost of providing reduced fares. However, reduced fares for riders with disabilities can reduce use of