The authority may employ fare enforcement officers, but they must complete approved 40-hour training before starting, wear a distinctive uniform, follow the chief of police, and not carry weapons while on duty.
Sec. 452.0612. FARE ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS. (a) The authority may employ persons to serve as fare enforcement officers to enforce the payment of fares for use of the public transportation system by: (1) requesting and inspecting evidence showing payment of the appropriate fare from a person using the public transportation system; and (2) issuing a citation to a person described by Section 452.0611(d)(1). (b) Before commencing duties as a fare enforcement officer a person must complete a 40-hour training course approved by the authority that is appropriate to the duties required of a fare enforcement officer. (c) While performing duties, a fare enforcement officer shall: (1) wear a distinctive uniform that identifies the officer as a fare enforcement officer; and (2) work under the direction of the chief of police of the authority. (d) A fare enforcement officer may: (1) request evidence showing payment of the appropriate fare from passengers of the public transportation system; (2) request personal identification from a passenger who does not produce evidence showing payment of the appropriate fare on request by the officer; (3) request that a passenger leave the public transportation system if the passenger does not possess evidence of payment of the appropriate fare; and (4) file a complaint in the appropriate court that charges the person with an offense under Section 452.0611(d). (e) A fare enforcement officer may not carry a weapon while performing duties under this section. (f) A fare enforcement officer is not a peace officer and has no authority to enforce a criminal law, other than the authority possessed by any other person who is not a peace officer. Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1113, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.