People in Renfrewshire could benefit from an expanded free bus travel scheme if the Scottish Government agrees to extend eligibility to everyone under 30.
Ross Greer, the Scottish Green MSP for West Scotland, which covers Renfrewshire, is calling for the change to be included in the upcoming Scottish Budget, describing it as vital support for young workers and families.
The proposal would build on the current free bus pass scheme for under-22s, which has delivered more than 250 million free journeys across Scotland. More than 7 million of those trips were made in Renfrewshire.
Supporters say the scheme has saved young people and their families significant sums of money, while also helping to cut emissions and encourage greener travel.
Extending free bus travel to everyone under 30 would give more than half a million additional people access to the scheme. Mr Greer argues this would improve access to work, education and opportunities, particularly for those struggling with rising living costs.
Ross Greer said: “The Greens’ introduction of free bus travel for everyone under 22 has been a huge success for people in Renfrewshire. Thousands of young people across our communities are saving money, finding new opportunities, and helping to tackle the climate crisis.
“This scheme is one of the clearest achievements of the Scottish Parliament. Families all over Renfrewshire have saved thousands of pounds at a time when bills and other costs have soared.
“But the cost-of-living crisis doesn’t stop the day people turn 22. For many young adults, losing their bus pass has a real impact, with new travel costs eating into already stretched budgets.
“Lowering the cost of public transport is a win-win for people and the planet. That’s why the Scottish Greens are pushing for more people to get a free bus pass as soon as possible.”
The call comes ahead of the Scottish Budget for the 2026–27 financial year, which will be published on Tuesday, 13th January 2026. Finance Secretary Shona Robison has confirmed the later-than-usual date, linked to the timing of the UK Budget and the need for parliamentary scrutiny.
We have contacted the Scottish Government for comment.