Rhode Island Code of Regulations Title 840 - Public Transit Authority
Rhode Island Code of Regulations Title 840 – Public Transit Authority (RIPTA)
1. Overview and Purpose
The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) is the state agency responsible for operating and regulating public transit services within Rhode Island. Title 840 of the Rhode Island Code of Regulations sets forth the rules governing:
Operation and management of public transit services.
Passenger rights and responsibilities.
Safety standards and fare enforcement.
Accessibility and accommodation.
Regulatory oversight and enforcement powers.
The primary goal is to provide safe, efficient, and equitable public transportation for residents and visitors.
2. Authority and Governance
RIPTA operates under a governing board responsible for policy decisions.
It is empowered to set fares, manage routes and schedules, and enforce transit rules.
It administers contracts with private providers and coordinates with municipalities.
3. Passenger Conduct and Rules
Title 840 contains detailed provisions on passenger conduct, including:
Prohibited behaviors: e.g., smoking, eating, drinking, vandalism, disorderly conduct.
Fare payment: Rules about fare collection, penalties for fare evasion, and exemptions (e.g., seniors, disabled persons).
Safety and Security: Regulations requiring passengers to follow operator instructions and safety protocols.
Accessibility: Accommodations for persons with disabilities in compliance with applicable accessibility standards.
4. Enforcement and Penalties
RIPTA may deny service or eject passengers violating rules.
Penalties for violations can include fines, bans from service, or referral to law enforcement.
Procedures for appealing enforcement actions are typically provided.
5. Operational Provisions
Vehicle maintenance and safety standards.
Employee conduct and training requirements.
Emergency procedures and incident reporting.
6. Hypothetical Case Law Examples
Case 1: Fare Evasion Penalty
Facts: A passenger is fined for riding without paying fare and refuses to leave the bus.
Legal Reasoning: Courts generally uphold RIPTA’s authority to impose fines for fare evasion, recognizing the agency’s need to fund services and enforce rules.
Outcome: Fine upheld; passenger lawfully ejected.
Case 2: Disability Accommodation
Facts: A passenger with a mobility impairment claims RIPTA failed to provide adequate accessible services.
Legal Reasoning: The agency must make reasonable accommodations and ensure accessibility. Failure to do so may result in judicial orders requiring compliance.
Outcome: Court orders RIPTA to enhance accessible service and provide training.
Case 3: Passenger Conduct Violation
Facts: A passenger is removed for disruptive behavior.
Legal Reasoning: Agencies may regulate conduct to maintain safety and order. Removal is upheld if behavior jeopardizes safety or other passengers’ comfort.
Outcome: Removal upheld; procedural due process observed.
7. Legal Principles
| Principle | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Authority to Regulate | RIPTA has broad authority to set reasonable rules for safety and fare payment. |
| Due Process | Passengers subject to penalties have rights to notice and appeal. |
| Public Safety | Rules serve to protect passengers and operators from harm or disruption. |
| Accessibility | Obligations to provide accommodations for disabled persons. |
| Reasonableness | Regulations must be fair and reasonably related to transit operations. |
8. Summary
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Passenger Rules | Behavior, fare payment, safety, accessibility |
| Enforcement | Fines, service denial, appeals |
| Operational Standards | Vehicle safety, employee conduct, emergency response |
| Governance | Board authority, policy setting |
9. Conclusion
Title 840 of the Rhode Island Code of Regulations provides a comprehensive framework for the operation and regulation of public transit under RIPTA. It balances the need for efficient, safe transit service with the protection of passenger rights, including those with disabilities. Enforcement of rules and regulations is subject to principles of fairness and due process.
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