The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has announced new measures to combat fare evasion on New York City buses, where nearly half of the riders are currently not paying their fares. The MTA’s decision to deploy a crew of fare inspectors follows a sharp increase in fare evasion, which has jumped from 21% in 2020 to approximately 50% in the first quarter of 2024, severely impacting the agency’s budget.
According to MTA officials, fare evasion is costing the transit system millions of dollars in lost revenue every year, with an estimated $312 million lost in 2022 alone. This significant loss has prompted the MTA to introduce unarmed “fare inspectors” who will be stationed on buses and at bus stops to identify fare evaders. These inspectors can issue fines ranging from $50 to $100 or ask non-paying passengers to exit the bus, aiming to reduce the financial strain on the city’s transit system.
MTA bus drivers, who have long witnessed fare evasion firsthand, have expressed mixed feelings about the new enforcement strategy. Curtis Carrington, a nine-year veteran bus driver, stated, “I see it all the time — every day. Out of a busload of people — let’s say 10 people got on, maybe two paid.” He emphasized that bus drivers are instructed not to confront fare evaders directly due to safety concerns, highlighting past incidents where drivers were assaulted over fare disputes.
The MTA’s expanded enforcement efforts include not only fare inspectors but also increased collaboration with the NYPD to ensure a safer environment for both passengers and transit workers. The initiative is part of a broader push to restore fare compliance to pre-pandemic levels across all modes of public transportation, including subways and commuter rails.
Despite these efforts, some transit workers remain skeptical about the effectiveness of fare inspectors in curbing fare evasion. The MTA has committed to deploying up to 100 inspectors during the 2024 fiscal year, supported by increased funding and new safety measures, including protected cockpits for bus drivers to protect them from potential violence.
The challenge of fare evasion remains a significant concern for the MTA, which is already facing a projected budget deficit of $428 million by 2027. As the agency looks to close this gap, it hopes that the combination of fare enforcement, increased police presence, and enhanced safety protocols will deter fare evasion and secure the financial stability of New York City’s public transit system.
