A sweeping real-estate transfer tax hike passed by Chicago aldermen yesterday will keep CTA pensions afloat, but aldermen asked for something in return: namely, the CTA must give active military and disabled veterans free rides.

Alderman James Balcer was a chief sponsor.

BALCER: And let me tell you again, I used the CTA when I came home from Vietnam. I was proud to use it. And I still say our military people still need this in our city, and it will show compassion to the men and women who are in uniform, and those who are disabled veterans.

The City of Chicago wants the free ride program in effect by mid-April. The CTA says it will have to determine how to identify eligible vets.

Riders who impersonate military personnel or disabled veterans will be subject to a $250 fine.