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Release date: SFMTA Bill to Streamline Muni Fare Evasion Ticket Processing Signed Into Law

*** Press Release ***

The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) praised the action of Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger who yesterday signed into law new legislation (SB 1749-Migden).  The measure authorizes the City and County of San Francisco along with Los Angeles to adjudicate fare evasion and other minor transit violations through administrative review rather than through the court system. 

The new law aims to improve enforcement of fare evasion and other minor transit violations, allowing the SFMTA to treat such infractions like parking tickets. This legislation is a crucial component of the SFMTA’s larger strategy to improve its Proof of Payment (POP) system.  In addition to its legislative efforts the SFMTA is in the process of hiring more than twenty new fare inspectors.

The other minor transit violations covered in the legislation include safety concerns such as playing loud music, skateboarding and rollerblading on platforms as well as unruly behavior.

SFMTA Executive Director/CEO Nathaniel P. Ford, Sr. applauded the Governor’s action and Senator Minden’s leadership, stating “In addition to being a significant part of our fare evasion plan, this ordinance will give us greater control over the quality of life issues that impact our customers.  I look forward to working with city leaders to implement this much needed change in how these citations are processed.”

San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom welcomed the bill’s approval. “This legislation represents the best of San Francisco—everyone working together to make this an even better place to live.  This measure is a great example of San Francisco’s ability to get things done in Sacramento.”

The bill takes effect January 1, 2007.  It will require a local ordinance for implementation.  “The Board will take action as quickly as possible,” said San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin, “I look forward to working with the MTA to improve on its efforts to reduce fare evasion”.

The collaboration between MTA management and TWU, Local 250-A was also instrumental in the passage of this legislation.  Local 250-A President Irwin Lum added “Our goal is to work with management to improve the rider’s experience.  I am optimistic that this will ensure more stable revenue to help avoid service reductions and fare increases in the future.”

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