The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is inviting county transportation and planning agencies to apply for the role of Local Access Fund Administrator (LAFA) as part of the TNC Access for All Program. This initiative aims to improve access to on-demand wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) services throughout California.
The program, which was established under Senate Bill 1376 and extended by Assembly Bill 1532 in 2025, will continue through January 1, 2032. Its purpose is to close gaps in transportation for people who use wheelchairs, enabling better access to employment, healthcare, education, and community events.
Counties selected as LAFAs will have control over how funds are used locally to expand or enhance WAV services. The CPUC notes that this model allows solutions to be tailored according to each county’s unique needs rather than applying a single approach statewide.
Eligible applicants include Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs), Regional Transportation Planning Agencies (RTPAs), county transportation commissions not already classified as MPOs or RTPAs, and in some cases qualifying local transit agencies.
Applications must be submitted by April 1, 2026. A complete application includes a certification of program requirements, a notarized affidavit agreeing to all terms, and a Payee Data Record. Applications should be emailed to tncaccess@cpuc.ca.gov by the deadline.
The CPUC plans to select LAFAs by July 1, 2026. After selection, approved LAFAs must submit a consent form and board resolution within 15 days so that funding can be distributed by September 30. The development period for local programs will run from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027; contracting with service providers is set to begin July 1, 2027. All Round 6 funds must be used by June 30, 2028.
Once selected, LAFAs are responsible for developing their local WAV program with input from the community and setting up processes for selecting access providers and reporting data quarterly to the CPUC.
Program materials and detailed requirements are available on the CPUC’s TNC Access for All webpage at https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/tncaccess/.
For questions about the application process or eligibility criteria, interested parties can contact tncaccess@cpuc.ca.gov.
“Transportation access is about more than travel. It is about independence, dignity, and the ability to fully participate in community life. By serving as a Local Access Fund Administrator, counties can play a direct role in expanding these opportunities for wheelchair users in their communities,” said Taseen Shamim, Public Information Officer.
