Starting the day after Labour Day, September 4, tougher penalties will be in place to deal with people caught in a fare-paid zone without a valid proof of payment.
Translink announced Friday morning new penalties will be in place in a fare collection bylaw, which will allow the organization to take over responsibility for issuing fare infraction tickets, collecting fines, and implementing both dispute and appeal processes.
The new legislation will also enable Transit Security, along with Transit Police, to issue fare infraction tickets.
“Fare evasion is theft and it impacts everyone,” said TransLink CEO Ian Jarvis. “The new regulation is critical to reducing theft. The provincial government has given us an important new tool to safeguard a significant source of revenue.”
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“The vast majority of our customers pay their fares and will not notice any changes,” added Chief Operating Officer Doug Kelsey. “But, they can be assured that we’re taking action on those who choose not to pay their fare. Our goal is to ensure everyone is paying their fair share across the board.”
This new bylaw is a result of the provincial government’s Bill 51, which was introduced back in May.
The new penalties for not having a valid fare in a fare paid zone are:
A $173 fine.
An unpaid fine escalates to $213 after 180 days and $273 after one year.
Outstanding fines may be referred to a collection agency.
ICBC may refuse to issue or renew a driver’s licence or vehicle insurance.
In addition, a new website – www.translink.ca/fareinfraction – opens on September 4, where those who receive a ticket may pay their fine online, dispute the ticket or appeal a decision.
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