Students could get free rides on buses and ferries if two bills tabled in the House of Assembly on Friday are passed.

As early as September 8 this year under the Government Omnibus (Fares) Amendment Regulations 2008 and the Marine Board (Ferry Service Fares) Amendment Regulations 2008, students could ride public transportation for free.

These amendments also seem to be part of what Minister of Finance, Paula Cox called a "phased-in basis" for free public transport in her budget statement earlier this year.

They appear to state that a student in school in Bermuda or a Bermudian who is not older than 18 and who is a student overseas will be eligible for a student pass and therefore a free journey on ferry or bus.

For the purpose of both regulations a Bermudian means a person who has Bermudian status under the Bermuda Immigration and Protection Act 1956.

Last night, the Permanent Secretary of Transport was asked for further information on the amendments giving free public transportation for students, however, there was no response to questions at the time of going to press.

Right now a term pass for a student under the age of 16 costs $45. Overall, the Government makes about $10 million annually from bus and ferry fares.

Following her budget statement, Ms. Cox said the roll-out of free transport was under review by the Ministry of Tourism and Transport and details would be announced shortly.

These two amendments seem to be the first mention of implementing free public transportation since the budget and they will have to be read for a second time in the House before they are passed.