WMATA Adjusts Bus Operator Fare Quotation Policy In Collaboration with Local 689

 ATU Local 689 appreciates WMATA’s willingness to hear the feedback and concerns of our members and work collaboratively toward adjusting the policy for when bus operators are required to quote the bus fare. Bus operators will only be required to quote the fare when operating a bus equipped with a fully enclosed operator workstation. ATU Local 689 and WMATA have worked collaboratively to address fare compliance while ensuring that the safety and security of our members remain a top priority.

WMATA has committed to invest in retrofitting its bus fleet with fully enclosed workstations, with the entire fleet expected to be equipped by May 31, 2027. Local 689 has been briefed on the progress of this important safety initiative, and WMATA has committed to continuing those briefings through completion of the project. 

While Local 689’s broader policy position is that transit services should ultimately be fare-free, we recognize that, under Metro’s current funding structure, fares are important to the transit operations and financial health of the system. Local 689 has also committed to supporting WMATA’s efforts to advance new legislation authorizing additional fare enforcement personnel, in addition to the Metro Transit Police Department. 

ATU Local 689 thanks our dedicated members who move the region every day.

 ###