An authority may employ fare enforcement officers, but officers must complete approved training, wear a distinctive uniform, follow the safety and security manager’s direction, and may not carry weapons while on duty.
Sec. 451.0612. FARE ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS. (a) An 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 451.0611(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 authority's manager of safety and security. (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 451.0611(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 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1221 (S.B. 1263), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2009. Amended by: Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1163 (H.B. 2702), Sec. 138, eff. September 1, 2011. Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 372 (H.B. 3031), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2013. Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 372 (H.B. 3031), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2013.