SOP 313 - TriMet Code Violations-Definitions

Code Enforcement and Fare Inspection Standard Operating Procedures

Purpose:

This procedure outlines the proper response to fare violations by Code Enforcement supervisors. Chapter 29 of the TriMet Code lists regulations governing proof of fare payment.

Procedures:

1.    Code Enforcement supervisors must investigate the situation with the customer. Some customers will require additional time, effort, assistance and patience. TriMet expects Code Enforcement supervisors to be polite and courteous to all customers, including customers who are violating TriMet’s fare polices.
2.    Youth, Honored Citizen or PASSport fare instruments require special attention to confirm violation:
·         Youth Tickets and Passes: Youth tickets require evidence of age eligibility of 17 years or younger or a valid ID showing that the rider is a student in high school (grades 9-12) or pursuing a GED (General Educational Development) certificate.
·         Honored Citizen Tickets and Passes: Honored citizen tickets and passes are intended for persons 65 years or better or for individuals who qualify due to disability or being a Medicare Card holder.
·         PASSport: A PASSport will include a name and photo ID as such misuse is easier to recognize.

3.    When a Code Enforcement supervisor determines that a customer has violated TriMet’s fare policy (i.e. lacking a fare, an unvalidated ticket, underpayment of fare, expired ticket or transfer, expired monthly pass, misuse of fare instruments, etc.), the Code Enforcement supervisor may respond in a variety of ways:

• Written Warning: Warnings should be used rarely and only in cases where there are compelling reasons to extend leniency rather than issue a citation.
• Citation: It is TriMet’s policy that clear violations of fare policy require issuance of a citation to ensure overall system compliance.
• Exclusion: If the nature of the customers’ actions warrants temporary removal of the customer from the TriMet system.

4.    TriMet’s fare policies and the potential for citation and penalty are clearly communicated through-out the TriMet system and on-board all TriMet vehicles. As such, it is expected that the majority of fare violations warrant issuance of a citation.
5.    Prior to issuing a warning, citation or exclusion, the Code Enforcement supervisor must perform a reference check (R-check) through OCC.  The purpose of an R-Check is to determine if an individual has a current or pending exclusion. If an R-check cannot be completed due to constraints in OCC, proceed with issuing a ticket and use the FINS database to complete the ticket.
6.    In all cases, once you have recorded information, return the pass or identification to the customer.