Sec. 452.0612. FARE ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS. (a) The 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 452.0611(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 chief of police of the authority.

(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 452.0611(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 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1113, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.