Kids in the Kamloops area under the age of 12 will be able to ride the bus for free, starting September 1.

In a statement, the B.C. government says it is part of the “Get on Board” initiative on both BC Transit and TransLink buses, as it aims to bring in efficient, reliable and affordable transit for families.

“Free transit for children 12 and under makes life more affordable for families,” said Premier John Horgan, in a statement. “Taking public transit is a great choice. It offers a cleaner, low-carbon way of getting around that works for people, communities and the environment. The ‘Get on Board’ program will also encourage a new generation of transit riders.”

In all, approximately 370,000 children 12 and under throughout B.C. will be eligible to ride for free when the program is launched.

People who buy fares or monthly bus passes for children 12 and under will no longer need to do so, as of next month. The government says it will mean a savings of about $420 a year for a family that buys their child a $35 monthly pass.

“We are excited to launch a program that will benefit parents and caregivers and make life more affordable for families across B.C.,” added Transport Minister, Rob Fleming, in a statement.

“As we rebuild transit systems and ridership after the pandemic, this new program will encourage people to get onboard with the potential to save families hundreds of dollars every year.”

On any BC Transit bus, unaccompanied children between the age of six and 12 will be able to ride buses and HandyDART for free, without requiring a fare product or identification. Anyone under the age of five, will have to be accompanied by someone over the age of 12.

“This is a great opportunity to grow young ridership, create lifelong transit users and further reduce congestion on our roads,” Erinn Pinkerton, the president and CEO, BC Transit, said.