Metra enacts conduct code for riders; Violators could face bans

Metra board directors unanimously approved a code of conduct Wednesday with tough consequences such as temporary travel bans for riders who engage in dangerous or offensive acts.

Officials said the code would give Metra the tools it needs to discourage behaviors ranging from violent to unsafe to inconsiderate on railroad property.

“The safety of our riders and our workers is paramount, and Metra intends to make full use of this new state law to make sure we are protecting both riders and workers to the best of our ability,” Metra Executive Director Jim Derwinski said in a statement.

Prohibited conduct includes threatening riders or crews, displaying weapons and assaulting others. The policy also targets refusing to pay fares, entering the train’s cab, smoking on board and indecency, among other offenses.

When problems occur, railroad employees will notify Metra police, who will hand out a notice to the offender and schedule a hearing date before a designated Metra official.

In serious cases, passengers could be immediately removed from the train and criminal charges could be filed.

Consequences could include suspending riding privileges for a period of time and confiscating paper or mobile tickets and passes.

The move follows a state law passed in 2023 empowering transit agencies to act against rider misconduct.

A number of employee unions supported the policy, saying it would deter troublemakers.

“No transit employee should have to face an individual who has spit in their face, threatened their life, placed their hands on them or physically assaulted them,” said Bob Smart, state director of the SMART Transportation Division representing Metra conductors.

And, “I applaud Metra for adopting a new passenger code of conduct that will hold riders who assault Metra workers accountable and make it clear that riding Metra is a privilege, not a right,” said Brian Shanahan, vice president of the Transportation Communications Union representing front-line customer service employees.

Along with obvious no-nos, the new rules also forbid skis and fully extended fishing rods from trains.

There’s also no deploying hoverboards on trains or traveling with containers of acid.

The code goes into effect Feb. 1.