Guideline for Goodwill Payments for Germany Ticket Public Transport 2024

This funding program is aimed at public transport authorities and transport companies in public local transport (ÖPNV) and regional rail passenger transport (SPNV) in Lower Saxony. It aims to offset financial disadvantages arising from the introduction of the Germany Ticket in 2024 and contributes to strengthening public transport in the interest of environmental and climate protection.

The program compensates for uncovered expenses incurred by public transport authorities and transport companies in public local transport (ÖPNV) and regional rail passenger transport (SPNV) in Lower Saxony in connection with the introduction of the Germany Ticket during the period from January to December 2024. This includes specific cost categories, while other expenses are explicitly excluded.

The funding program offers financial support in the form of full compensation for eligible, uncovered expenses. The funds are granted as a subsidy and are primarily intended for 2024, with the program running until the end of 2026.

To ensure eligibility for funding, applicants and the revenue-responsible transport companies must meet various conditions. These include participation in the nationwide revenue sharing process, compliance with fare regulations, and ensuring that no overcompensation occurs. In addition, specific proof obligations and audit rights must be observed.

The application procedure is to be carried out electronically and informally, observing specific deadlines and documents to be submitted. Approval is granted on a discretionary basis and may include advance payments, followed by a final settlement.

The Guideline on the Granting of Goodwill Payments to Compensate for Uncovered Expenses in Public Local Transport in Connection with the Germany Ticket in 2024 forms the primary legal basis for this funding program. It is anchored in Lower Saxony state law and implements nationwide requirements, taking into account relevant European regulations.