MTS changes fare evasion policy; citations start in 2025 [Video]

SAN DIEGO — Early next year, riders on Metropolitan Transit System trolleys caught without a valid fare will be issued a citation then and there, according to changes the MTS board approved Thursday.

The policy differs from the current system, where MTS Security officers can offer someone caught without a valid fare the chance to buy a trolley fare for $2.50 or validate one. The change will go into effect Feb. 1, 2025.

Between May 2022 and July 2024, an analysis of MTS’ fare collection estimated the agency lost between $17 million and $23 million in fare revenue due to evasion. This total comes from an estimated 57,000 monthly riders not paying fares unless expressly checked by MTS officers.

According to MTS, riders in violation will be issued a fine as low as $25 if cleared through …