Californians with disabilities who rely on non-foldable motorized wheelchairs often face significant challenges in securing reliable transportation. In response, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 1532, which extends the Transportation Network Company (TNC) Access for All Program through January 1, 2032. This program aims to ensure continued investment in on-demand, wheelchair-accessible transportation services across the state.
The TNC Access for All Program was established to provide people with disabilities access to the same app-based ride services used by many Californians. While companies like Lyft and Uber are widely available, vehicles that can accommodate wheelchairs—known as wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs)—remain scarce.
Since its inception in 2019, the program has worked to address this gap by increasing WAV availability statewide. Funding for the initiative comes from a ten-cent fee added to every TNC trip originating in California. The collected fees support a system designed to expand accessible travel options.
This funding structure encourages TNCs to invest directly in on-demand WAV services throughout California’s counties. If any funds remain unspent by TNCs, they are transferred to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). The CPUC then allocates these resources to Local Access Fund Administrators (LAFAs), typically county or regional agencies familiar with local needs. LAFAs collaborate with transportation or mobility organizations—referred to as Access Providers—to implement accessible ride programs at the community level. In areas without a LAFA, funds are distributed by a Statewide Access Fund Administrator (SAFA) to broaden WAV service coverage.
According to program data, nearly $51 million has been generated through the ten-cent fee since launch, with $35.7 million awarded so far to agencies in 15 counties.
Supporters of the program emphasize its role in promoting independence and economic mobility for people with disabilities while fostering partnerships between public agencies and private companies.
The extension of the TNC Access for All Program signals California’s ongoing commitment to equitable and accessible transportation options.
Those interested in participating—as members of the public, potential Access Providers, or local agencies seeking LAFA status—can find more information and application details on the TNC Access for All Program webpage.
“By working together, California is building a transportation system where everyone has access to the rides they need, when they need them,” said Taseen Shamim, Public Information Officer.
