The Maryland Department of Transportation, Maryland Transit Administration, announced the implementation of a policy to ban individuals who commit physical or verbal assaults against riders or employees. 

Supported by legislation enacted this year, the agency will begin to issue permanent or temporary bans across all modes, including Local Bus, Light Rail, Metro Subway, MARC Train, Commuter Bus, and Mobility. 

The agency is also launching the Elerts SeeSay mobile app, which enables riders to discreetly report safety concerns and communicate in real time with the Maryland Transit Police.

"Our riders and employees deserve to feel safe every time they take transit," said Maryland Transit Administrator Holly Arnold. "By holding accountable those who commit assaults and by providing riders with a new tool to report concerns, we are reinforcing our commitment to a safe and respectful transit experience."

SeeSay Tool Implementation

The Elert SeeSay platform is a discreet, safety communication tool used by other transit agencies across the U.S., including MBTA, DART, SEPTA, CATA, and BART. 

While riders are strongly encouraged to report safety concerns immediately to transit operators and station attendants, the SeeSay app allows riders to report problems in multiple ways: directly through the app, via text, or through an online form on the MTA’s website.

Beginning October 6, users may submit photos or videos when reporting a safety concern. Each report is routed directly to Maryland Transit Police dispatch staff for review and response. The app integrates geolocation technology to provide MTA police dispatchers with the rider’s precise location, allowing for a faster and more accurate response. 

Code of Conduct

The agency’s Code of Conduct, “Rules of the Ride,” was issued in August and outlines clear expectations for behavior while on buses, trains, and in stations. 

The Code of Conduct is organized into three categories  of behavior:

• Courteous Conduct: Everyday respectful actions that contribute to a safe and comfortable environment for everyone. This includes keeping seats accessible, speaking at a low volume, using headphones when listening to audio content, and being mindful of others.

• Prohibited Conduct: Actions not permitted on MTA property or vehicles. Examples include smoking, vandalism, carrying concealed weapons illegally, and disruptive behavior.

• Bannable Conduct: Unlawful acts that will result in a ban. This includes any type of assault—physical or verbal—threats, sexual harassment, or fighting against an MTA employee, another passenger, or anyone else on MTA property.

Enforcement of the Rider Code of Conduct and the policy to suspend or ban individuals who violate the code will be conducted by the Maryland Transit Police. If a rider is forbidden, they will receive formal notice of suspension or ban, along with the process for appealing. The agency is sharing information about the Code of Conduct and enforcement policy on its website, social media, and through announcements on buses, trains, and at stations.