D.C. Metro bus operators raise concerns about fare announcement policy

Transit Talent Staff Report

The Washington Post reports that bus operators at the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority are pushing back against a policy change that requires them to verbally announce the $2.25 fare to passengers, saying the requirement could increase confrontations and put operators at greater risk.

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WMATA reinstated the fare-announcement requirement in May after prohibiting operators from routinely stating the fare for roughly a decade. Under the new directive, drivers are instructed to greet passengers with, “Hello, the fare is $2.25.” Operators are not expected to enforce payment or argue with passengers over fares and are told to request assistance if a rider becomes combative.

Several current and former Metro employees told the Washington Post they believe the policy could lead to more harassment or assaults. Some operators are declining to follow the directive, noting that automated announcements already provide fare information.

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The policy comes as WMATA increases its efforts to combat fare evasion. In 2024, the agency estimated that about 70% of bus riders did not pay their fares. General Manager Randy Clarke said a recent enforcement campaign has reduced fare evasion by 10% to 12%, generating approximately $200,000 in additional weekly revenue.

Operator safety remains a concern for the union representing Metro employees. WMATA has invested about $15 million in protective shields for bus operators and expects all buses to have fully enclosed operator compartments by May 2027. Buses also have cameras and emergency-alert systems.

Clarke maintains that operators are performing “fare awareness,” rather than fare enforcement. Some operators, however, say their primary responsibility should remain safely transporting passengers without unnecessarily escalating interactions.

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