Union officials urge Metrobus drivers to stop telling riders to pay bus fares after driver attacked

Union leaders representing Metrobus drivers have instructed their members to cease informing passengers of the $2.25 fare requirement following an incident in which a driver was physically assaulted. This directive comes amid growing concerns over the safety of operators who are tasked with enforcing fare policies on public transportation. The Amalgamated Transit Union Local 689 issued this guidance during a press conference held on Wednesday. Union representatives criticized a recent Metro policy implemented in May that mandates drivers to verbally communicate the cost of the ride to passengers. They argue that this practice increases the risk of violence against drivers, citing an August 1 attack in Silver Spring as evidence. During the press conference, union leaders emphasized that the safety of their members takes precedence over efforts to collect fares. A union release from earlier this year described the policy change as “despicable and callous.” According to the union, the potential financial gain from collecting $2.25 from fare evaders does not justify putting drivers in harm's way. The incident in Silver Spring involved a masked individual who allegedly became aggressive after being informed of the fare and prohibited from bringing an open container of alcohol aboard the bus. Footage shared on social media by the union depicts the driver instructing the passenger to move behind the safety line at the front of the vehicle. The passenger then breached the barrier and struck the driver multiple times. Metro Transit Police have since issued a public appeal for information regarding the identity of the masked assailant. In a recent statement, Metro confirmed that preliminary findings indicate the driver had informed the suspect about the prohibition on open alcoholic beverages. The agency has also stated it is working toward installing fully enclosed barriers on its buses, with plans to complete this project by spring 2027. ATU Local 689 President Raymond Jackson noted that the driver believed the attack occurred because he mentioned the fare rather than the alcohol rule. He added that the practice of quoting fares was suspended in 2016 due to similar incidents involving driver safety. Barry Wilson, ATU Local 689 Secretary, questioned the necessity of having drivers inform passengers of the fare, pointing out that the fare amount is already announced on the bus and displayed on the fare box. He suggested that there is no need for the operator to relay this information to passengers. Metro released a statement on X, emphasizing that safety remains a top priority. The company outlined its progress in enhancing security measures, including banning 1,000 individuals from the transit system since June 2025. It also acknowledged that the union opposed the introduction of special police officers on board buses to improve security. The union's stance reflects broader tensions between operational efficiency and employee well-being within the public transportation sector. While Metro continues to push forward with initiatives aimed at reducing fare evasion, the union insists that these efforts must not come at the expense of driver safety. As discussions continue, the implementation of fully enclosed barriers on buses remains a key focus for both parties.