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HD 4938

A communication from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (see Section 101 of Chapter 159 of the General Laws) submitting a report detailing fare evasion warnings or citations issued by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority for calendar year 2024

194th Legislature (2025-2026)

Massachusetts transportation department must report 2024 MBTA fare evasion warnings and citations to assess transit enforcement practices and equity.

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Bill Summary · HD 4938

Legislative bill overview

HD 4938 requires the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to submit a report to the state legislature detailing all fare evasion warnings and citations issued by the MBTA during calendar year 2024. This is a routine reporting requirement that compiles data on enforcement actions related to unpaid transit fares.

Why is this important

The report provides transparency into MBTA enforcement practices and allows legislators to assess how aggressively the agency pursues fare evasion, which has implications for revenue collection, ridership equity, and public perception of transit accessibility. This data informs policy decisions about fare enforcement priorities and potential legislative changes to transit regulations.

Potential points of contention

  • Enforcement equity concerns: Data may reveal disparities in which riders or communities receive disproportionate citations, raising questions about fair enforcement practices
  • Revenue versus ridership: Aggressive fare enforcement can generate revenue but may deter low-income riders from using public transit, creating tension between financial and accessibility goals
  • Administrative burden: The reporting requirement itself adds to MassDOT/MBTA administrative costs with minimal direct benefit unless the data prompts legislative action

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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