Metro Transit, which provides public transportation for the Twin Cities metro area, announced last week that it is installing new signs at light rail and bus transit stations which outline acceptable behaviors from riders.

“Signs outlining the expectations we have of riders are now being installed at light rail and bus rapid transit stations,” Metro Transit wrote in a post on social media. “Those who violate these rules will be removed from transit property.”

The rules distinguish illegal activity from activity that isn’t necessarily illegal but is “not allowed.”

Peeing and pooping while riding on Metro Transit vehicles falls under the “illegal” category, according to the signs. “Transit property is not a public restroom,” the new rules read. They also explain to riders that sexual assault is illegal. “Sexual contact without consent is forbidden,” the rules state.

Other illegal behaviors include threatening or spitting on others, smoking and illegal drug use, drinking alcohol, and disorderly conduct.

Behaviors that Metro Transit says are not allowed include solicitation and panhandling, using vulgar language, and “sexual or discriminatory harassment.”

Metro Transit riders shared safety concerns with lawmakers last March and testified to the high rates of “open drug use” on transit vehicles.

In September, crime on Metro Transit trains and buses was reportedly up 22% over 2022 and 50% over 2021, according to the Center of the American Experiment.
https://alphanews.org/metro-transit-...lt-passengers/