DC's Metro Transit Police Department (MTPD) is ramping up its fare evasion enforcement starting March 18, following the passage of the Secure DC bill. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) announced that officers will require individuals stopped for fare evasion to provide their name and address, a shift from the previous procedure where violators could only be asked to leave the station, as reported by DC News Now.
Under the new guidelines, MTPD officers now have the authority to issue civil citations, and arrest anyone who refuses to provide their name and address, potentially facing a fine up to $100. This enhancement of enforcement measures is complemented by alterations at fare gates across 98 stations, integrating new salon-style doors that are designed to discourage fare evasion, as per WJLA.
Moreover, the new law not only aims to bolster fare evasion enforcement but also increases the penalties for assaulting bus and rail operators or Metro employees under the Transit Operator Protection and Enhanced Penalty Amendment Act. According to WMATA, the Secure DC Bill includes additional tools for the MTPD to stop and deter criminal behavior, which are deemed critical for running a safe and efficient public transport system.
