Barger Issues Statement on Metro Board’s Unanimous Action to Support Wildfire Survivors
Los Angeles County Supervisor and Metro Board 2nd Vice Chair Kathryn Barger issued the following statement after the Metro Board today unanimously voted to extend the Wildfire Recovery Modified LIFE Enrollment program through January 2026:
“Today’s unanimous vote to extend the Wildfire Recovery Modified LIFE Enrollment program reflects our Metro Board’s steadfast commitment to standing with those whose lives were upended by the devastating wildfires earlier this year,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor and Metro Board 2nd Vice Chair Kathryn Barger. “Recovery from a disaster of this magnitude doesn’t end after a few months. Families are still rebuilding, still trying to regain stability, and still need reliable access to transit to reach work, school, medical care, and other critical services.
By extending this program through January 2026, we are making sure Metro remains a lifeline for survivors as they continue their journey toward recovery. I appreciate my colleagues’ support in recognizing this ongoing need and for ensuring Metro’s resources remain accessible, safe, and dependable for those who need them most.”
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Background on Metro’s LIFE Program
The LIFE (Low‑Income Fare is Easy) program is Metro’s flagship fare‑assistance initiative, launched in 2019 to help low‑income riders afford public transportation across Los Angeles County. Through LIFE, eligible riders can receive an initial 90‑day free transit pass followed by ongoing monthly discounts—such as 20 free rides per month—loaded directly onto their TAP cards. The program is available on Metro buses and trains as well as a network of participating local transit agencies, ensuring riders can access work, school, medical care, and other essential services.
