The San Mateo County Transit District (SamTrans) Board of Directors adopted a new Passenger Suspension Policy at its October meeting, aiming to strengthen safety for riders and transit personnel.

The policy authorizes SamTrans to temporarily suspend individuals who engage in unsafe, threatening, or disruptive behavior on district vehicles or property, including SamTrans fixed-route buses, Redi-Wheels, RediCoast, Ride Plus, SamCoast, shuttles, bus stops, and stations. The new policy takes effect immediately. 

"Everyone deserves to feel safe when using public transit," said Board Chair Jeff Gee. "This policy ensures SamTrans has the authority and process to address serious misconduct while maintaining a respectful and welcoming environment for all." 

According to the agency, the Passenger Suspension Policy builds on the district's Code of Conduct and Enforcement Policy, adopted in April 2024, which outlines prohibited behaviors, including harassment, assault, fare evasion, and tampering with safety equipment. The new policy provides an enforceable mechanism to respond to repeated or severe violations of that code. 

Strengthening Safety Through Enforcement and Partnership

SamTrans will partner with law enforcement to enforce the new policy, removing disruptive riders when necessary and, in severe cases, continuing to seek court-issued restraining orders. 

"This gives us an important tool to protect both our passengers and front-line employees," said General Manager/CEO April Chan. "Safety is fundamental to public confidence in transit, and this policy reinforces our commitment to that principle." 

The Federal Transit Administration has reported a steady national rise in assaults on transit workers, with an average annual increase of 8% over the past decade. According to the agency, the new policy positions SamTrans among Bay Area agencies "taking proactive steps to reverse that trend and foster safer, more respectful transit experiences."