MN SF1049

Creates a Transit Rider Investment Program (TRIP) authorizing the Metropolitan Council to deploy non-law enforcement personnel for fare inspection, administrative citations, rider education, and social services referrals on public transit in seven counties (Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, Washington).

Establishes administrative citation authority for transit fare evasion violations under Minnesota Statutes section 609.855, with fines between $35-$100, a 90-day payment/contest period, and civil dispute resolution process before a neutral third party.

Requires the Metropolitan Council to adopt a rider code of conduct, establish paid fare zones, implement security cameras and public address systems at light rail stations, and publish monthly ridership statistics and quarterly crime data.

Authorizes transit officials to issue citations for prohibited conduct violations (smoking, urinating/defecating, consuming alcohol, damaging property, disorderly conduct) at transit facilities and vehicles, effective July 1, 2023.

Appropriates $2,000,000 in fiscal year 2023 for a Transit Service Intervention Project combining social services outreach teams and coordinated law enforcement interventions on light rail lines, expiring June 30, 2024.