San Diego agency to test new fare enforcement approach

Rail News Home Passenger Rail 6/22/2020 Rail News: Passenger Rail
In September, SDMTS will implement a fare enforcement pilot program with reduced fines.Photo – SDMTS

The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System’s (SDMTS) board last week approved a fare enforcement pilot program that reduces fines and provides fare violators new options for paying citations. 

In early September, SDMTS will implement the pilot program to provide more flexibility for passengers who receive citations for not having a valid fare while riding trolleys.

Under the policy, citations will be reduced to $25.

Those who don’t have the means to pay a citation within 120 days will have the option of doing three to four hours of community service through the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank in lieu of payment.

SDMTS is working to add more community service locations prior to the pilot period, agency officials said in a press release.

In addition, riders can appeal the fare violation within 15 days of a citation, which could include showing proof of a paid fare or issues with a malfunctioning ticket vending machine.

Only citations that are not paid within 120 days will proceed to criminal courts where substantial fees may be added to the fines.