They are the result of a controversial decision made by the Association Assembly in July to increase prices. The Assembly is made up of representatives of the cities and districts belonging to the VRS. At that time it was decided to increase the fares on January 1, 2020 and January 1, 2021 by an average of 2.5 percent each. However, this increase only applies to ticket subscriptions (for monthly passes). The single tickets of the so-called cash tariff will not become more expensive but subscriptions for monthly tickets may increase more than 2.5 percent.

The higher prices are attributed to increased costs for personnel, fuel and material at the transport companies. The decision in July was both clear and tight. 27 out of 36 association meeting members had voted for the increase, but one more dissenting vote would have meant a blocking minority, as tariff decisions at the VRS have to be made by a three-quarter majority.

On Thursday, the association decided on some improvements in the VRS offer, which will take effect from next year. In the future, up to three children (under 15 years of age) accompanied by an adult who has a pass (including a job ticket and a semester ticket) will be able to travel free of charge from 3 p.m. on weekdays. Up to now, this travel allowance had only been valid from 7 p.m. on weekdays. According to the VRS, this does not affect full-day travel on weekends and public holidays.

The association also decided that from January 2020, weekly and monthly tickets which are not purchased as subscriptions, can be transferred to other riders.

Access to the job ticket has also been made easier for companies. A pilot project is planned to run until the end of 2022. Orig. text: Christoph Meurer Translation: Carol Kloeppel