(1) There is established in the State Treasury the Transportation Disadvantaged Trust Fund to be administered by the Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged. All fees collected for the transportation disadvantaged program under s. 320.03(9) shall be deposited in the trust fund. (2) Funds deposited in the trust fund shall be appropriated by the Legislature to the commission and shall be used to carry out the responsibilities of the commission and to fund the administrative expenses of the commission.
(3) Funds deposited in the trust fund may be used by the commission to subsidize a portion of a transportation disadvantaged person’s transportation costs which is not sponsored by an agency, only if a cash or in-kind match is required. Funds for nonsponsored transportation disadvantaged services shall be distributed based upon the need of the recipient and according to criteria developed by the Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged.
(4) A purchasing agency may deposit funds into the Transportation Disadvantaged Trust Fund for the commission to implement, manage, and administer the purchasing agency’s transportation disadvantaged funds, as defined in s. 427.011(10). (5) The commission may expend funds to contract with alternative providers with dedicated vehicles and trained personnel specializing in paratransit services to support transportation services for persons with disabilities. Such entities shall provide specialized transportation services tailored to the specific needs of riders, that comply with service standards as established by the commission, to ensure safe and accessible mobility options.
