In response to the passage of an Illinois law in 2023 that gives transit agencies the power to take action against passengers who behave in certain ways, Metra adopted a new passenger code of conduct that codifies many common-sense rules.
The code of conduct “identifies prohibited conduct for persons using Metra facilities and trains,” while allowing passengers who engage in prohibited conduct to have their riding privileges terminated and their fare media confiscated.
The new Passenger Code of Conduct lists the following as examples of prohibited acts:
- Verbally or physically endangering the safety of others.
- Causing or attempting to cause physical harm to another person.
- Pushing or attempting to push another person.
- Hitting, kicking, or attempting to punch or kick another person.
- Attacking or threatening to attack another person with a weapon. This includes, but is not limited to, brandishing a weapon or pointing a gun at another person (regardless of whether the gun is loaded or not).
- Throwing or attempting to throw things at others.
- Spitting or attempting to spit on another person.
- Sexual assault or attempted sexual assault against another person.
- engaging in public lewd acts;
Officials said that if someone is seen engaging in such behavior, they will be reported to Metra Police, who will issue notices to passengers, suspend their riding privileges, confiscate their fare cards (or remove their cellphones). ). Tickets are available through the Ventra app).
Officials said the hearing will be held remotely or by phone at Metra’s headquarters at 547 W. Jackson Blvd. A public hearing must occur before fare cards can be confiscated or riding privileges suspended.
Riders can also waive their right to a hearing and ask for a suspension or forfeiture to be imposed early. Passengers whose riding privileges or fare cards are suspended after a hearing may appeal up to two times.
Officials said suspensions can last from 10 days to a year, but repeat violations could require suspensions longer than a year.