Senate Bill 12-044 Summary

• Creates a new Class B traffic infraction for failure to present valid evidence of mass transit fare payment with a $75 fine and $4 surcharge.

• Authorizes public transportation entities to appoint or employ fare inspectors with power to issue citations for violations occurring on public transportation vehicles (buses, trains, light rail).

• Defines "proof of prior fare payment" as a valid transit pass, receipt showing fare payment, or prepaid/cancelled ticket valid for the date and time of use.

• Prevents persons with outstanding judgments for transit fare violations from obtaining or renewing driver's licenses.

• Requires courts to seal prior conviction records for "theft of public transportation services by fare evasion" for persons who completed their sentences by January 1, 2013, and allows persons still serving sentences to petition for sealing after completion.