The $200 Ticket: Metrolinx's Massive Fare Evasion Fine Hike
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A first-time mistake on GO Transit or the UP Express is about to become exponentially more expensive as Metrolinx moves to plug a $21 million revenue hole.
Q: What is changing for GO Transit and UP Express riders regarding fare evasion?
A: Starting Sept. 8, Metrolinx is significantly increasing the fines for riders who evade fares. According to CBC Toronto, the fine for a first-time offence is jumping from $35 to $200.
Q: How does this compare to the previous fine structure?
A: As reported by CBC Toronto, the current system scales fines based on the number of offences: $35 for the first, $50 for the second, and $100 for the third. A $200 fine and a provincial offence notice are currently only issued to passengers who have committed four or more fare evasions.
Q: What happens to repeat offenders under the new rules?
A: Metrolinx stated that repeat offenders will now face fine increases of $100 for each subsequent incident until they reach a fifth offence. At that stage, a provincial offence notice is issued, and the fine is determined by the chief justice of the Ontario Court of Justice. For those with six or more offences, the transit agency says a court summons will be issued, with potential fines reaching $1,000 upon conviction, per CBC Toronto.
Q: Why is Metrolinx implementing these drastic increases?
A: The province proposed these changes earlier this year, citing that fare evasion results in approximately $21 million in lost revenue annually for Metrolinx. In a news release cited by CBC Toronto, Metrolinx argued that "fare evasion affects everyone" and that higher fines are necessary to ensure the transit system remains sustainable and reliable for all users.
Q: What advice is Metrolinx giving to commuters to avoid these penalties?
A: To avoid the new fines, the provincial transit agency is urging riders to remember to tap at both the start and end of every trip. Additionally, CBC Toronto reports that Metrolinx reminded passengers to ensure they have the correct fare type and carry valid identification for discounted fares—such as veteran or student cards—during inspections.
Q: How do these fines compare to other transit services in the city?
A: CBC Toronto notes that fare evasion fines for the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) can reach as high as $425, or may result in a criminal charge depending on the nature of the offence.