The Scottish Government has approved up to £61.4m of additional funding for the bus sector from 1 April to 27 June, as the UK emerges from lockdown.
The cash covers the gap between increased operational costs due to COVID-19 and the loss of fare revenue due to physical distancing and reduced demand.
This funding is in addition to the £191.3m the Scottish Government has made available to help bus services in the current financial year.
The cash is subject to 'regular reconciliation' to ensure only the correct amount is paid, and the actual spend in 2020-21 is forecast at £144.5m, the Scottish Government said.
Transport secretary Michael Matheson said: 'Bus services have been absolutely vital in keeping Scotland moving safely during the coronavirus pandemic – most recently, helping people attend vaccination appointments as well as other essential journeys.
'We’re asking everyone to play their part in ensuring that the currently reduced capacity on board buses is there for those who really need it. I give my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has worked so hard to help us create a safe travel environment under unprecedented circumstances.'
Director for the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) in Scotland, Paul White said: 'This funding extension will help meet the costs associated with running the network while experiencing significantly reduced capacity. CPT will continue to engage with Scottish Government to ensure that bus services provision meets demand as we hopefully gradually and safely transition out of Covid-19 restrictions and social distancing.'
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