Opinion editor's note: Editorials represent the opinions of the Star Tribune Editorial Board, which operates independently from the newsroom.
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Metro Transit's move to enforce payment of fares aboard light-rail trains is commendable and a needed first step toward restoring order.
The open question is whether the agency can maintain enough of a security presence to perform frequent and regular fare checks, as well as enforcement of its new code of conduct.
To kick off its highly publicized crackdown this week, Metro Transit deployed 12 community service officers (CSOs), typically trainees for careers in law enforcement. Previously, only licensed police officers could write criminal citations for fare evasion, but a long-sought and overdue change at the Legislature earlier this year allowed for less costly administrative citations that could be issued by other than law enforcement.
Tickets now will range from $35 for a first offense, payable in 90 days, to $55 for a second offense and $75 for a third offense. A third ticket also would earn the offender a 60-day ban from accessing transit services. A fourth offense would up the fine again and double the ban.
"This is one prong in a multipronged approach, but we do think it will be a positive step," Metro Transit General Manager Lesley Kandaras said in announcing the new policy.
The strategy sends a more serious message to passengers that they are expected to pay fares for the privilege of riding. It is a reminder, along with the conduct code, that such a privilege comes with conditions. However, the key to making this more than an empty threat is frequent and consistent enforcement across all the hours rail lines are in operation.