Calgary considering policing non-destination loitering, age verification on transit

A Calgary city council committee is set to mull over a set of transit bylaw changes aimed at cracking down on fare evasion and making transit safer.

The Community Development Committee has been tasked with whether or not to implement a series of amendments to the bylaw which regulates and manages the conduct of transit passengers and ensures the safety of riders and staff.

The bylaw sets the rules for transit use and addresses prohibited behaviours. Transit peace officers enforce the bylaw with the help of Calgary Police Officers, when necessary.

One of the changes being considered is the addition of a definition for loitering and an offence for non-destination use of transit. This would mean officers will take action when a person is staying on transit for a long period of time, without the end goal of reaching a destination, regardless of if they have paid a fare. The city hopes this change will give peace officers greater ability to manage behaviour and lay charges when appropriate.

Changes could also be made to introduce a charge for altering or re-creating a valid pass for the purpose of forging. The aim of this amendment is to reinforce fare compliance and reduce fare evasion.

The city is also considering giving transit peace officers the authority to ask for proof of age to defer claims of someone being 12 and younger to get a free pass. Officers will use discretion when dealing with minors.

Fines could also be added for possessing a weapon on transit and for verbal harassment, threats and intimidation of transit operators, riders and staff.

Considerations are also being made to allow bikes on CTrains during peak periods.

Following discussion by the committee, the proposed amendments will go to council for approval.