CLACKAMAS COUNTY
EMPLOYMENT POLICY & PRACTICE (EPP)

EPP #057
Implemented: 09/01/2008
Revised:
Clerical Update:

TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANCE – PILOT PROGRAM

PURPOSE:  The purpose of the pilot program is to provide employees with a fifty percent (50%) subsidy on the purchase of a monthly all-zone Tri-Met pass for the period of September, 2008 through June, 2009.  This is a pilot program and will be reviewed for continuation, expansion or change.

SCOPE:  This policy applies to all benefits eligible (regular full-time and part-time) employees.  Participants in the transportation program pledge to commute to work primarily by Tri-Met bus and/or light rail options. 

POLICY STATEMENT:  Clackamas County is dedicated to encouraging employees to use alternative modes of transportation such as public transportation, carpooling, walking and bicycling to relieve road congestion, reduce harmful emissions, improve employee health and reduce employee commuting costs. 

Clackamas County offers this incentive program to its employees at its discretion and may modify or terminate the program at any time.

PARTICIPATION

Clackamas County will pay fifty percent of the cost of a monthly all-zone Tri-Met pass.  Employees will pay the balance through a pre-tax payroll deduction.  Participating employees must complete a payroll deduction authorization form prior to participating in the program. 

Deductions will be taken on the second paycheck of the month for passes effective the second month following (i.e., payroll deduction on September 19, 2008 will be used to purchase a pass for the month of November, 2008).  Transit passes will be mailed each month to the address specified on the payroll deduction authorization form. 

Employees may begin or end their participation in the program at any time by submitting a completed cancellation form with a minimum of six weeks advance notice. 

EMERGENCY RIDE HOME

For employees who use transit for commuting to work, Tri-Met will pay for a taxi to take them home if they need to leave work unexpectedly for an emergency.  Emergency ride home vouchers are available from the Department of Employee Services and from department transportation coordinators.  Authorized reasons for using the Emergency Ride Home Program are:

1. The employee cannot take transit because they are ill.
2. A close family member is seriously ill, has been in an accident or has died.
3. A serious problem or crisis arises, such as damage to home or property.
4. A problem at school or daycare requires immediate attention.

DISQUALIFICATION/VIOLATIONS

INTERNET LINKS
Program Participation and Payroll Authorization Form
Program Cancellation Form
County Ordinance