Transit perk numbs effect of proposed fare increases Tens of thousands of federal workers ride Metro for free and wouldn't feel the pain of proposed fare increases that could raise one-way subway fares to as much as $5.95. Some 120,000 federal workers in the Washington region receive up to $230 a month for transit, which amounts to taxpayer-funded free rides or at least a hefty bite out of even the most expensive trips.   Read More