Minnesota House Democrats are proposing what they say is a more equitable transit system by reducing fines for fare-jumpers and hiring transit ambassadors. Met Council Chair Charlie Zelle says this will help increase safety on trains and buses.
“We need to up our game. We see that safety, the idea of the atmosphere of safety, the atmosphere of being comfortable to come in and out of all of our buses and trains is really, really critical,” Zelle said.
Representative Brad Tabke of Shakopee says the current fines for fare-jumping are way out of line.
“This is a misdemeanor and it's on par with a DUI or with a $500 property theft or assault. That is not a a good thing for all Minnesotans,” he said.
The job of the ambassadors would be to help connect public transportation riders to services.
House Democrats say there is bipartisan support for the proposal, especially when it comes to decriminalizing fare evasion. The legislative session begins a week from Tuesday.
Listen to the full press conference here:
