MA: MBTA Starts Fare Evader Crackdown
Under pressure to find ways to bridge a $159 million budget gap without increasing train or bus fares or cutting services, the MBTA is cracking down on fare jumpers.
About 130 people attended last week's Haverhill hearing with dozens testifying against the proposed cuts and fare increases. Many people, including several mentally and physically handicapped people, said the commuter train is their only way to get to Boston for jobs and medical appointments. Most said they also can't afford to pay more for public transportation.
BOX
MBTA has stepped up efforts to catch people who try to sneak on trains and buses without paying
Number of *$15 fare evasion tickets issued by the agency
2007: 818
2008: 1,019
2009: 2,943
2010: 3,072
2011: 3,482
Jan. 1 to March 6, 2011: 493
Jan. 1 to March 6, 2012: 925
*MBTA is working with the Legislature to increase the fine.
Copyright 2012 - The Eagle-Tribune, North Andover, Mass.
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