SANTA MONICA – Big Blue Bus riders and operators will experience increased safety with the passage of SB 1417 (Allen), a new law signed by Governor Newsom that allows the City of Santa Monica’s Department of Transportation to deny access to Big Blue Bus services for individuals routinely cited for policy infractions, and/or arrested or convicted for a misdemeanor or felony committed on buses or transit facilities.

“A safe and reliable public transportation system allows a city and its residents the ability to operate efficiently and at a greater capacity,” said Senator Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica). “SB 1417 will be an important tool to reduce dangerous disturbances on Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus to provide a safer and more enjoyable experience for riders.”

Sponsored by the City of Santa Monica and authored by Senator Ben Allen, SB 1417 permits the issuance of prohibition orders lasting from 30 days to one year for offenses that jeopardize the safety and comfort of Big Blue Bus passengers and employees.

“On behalf of the Santa Monica Department of Transportation, we are grateful to Senator Allen for addressing our concerns and sponsoring the legislation, and to Governor Newsom for signing the bill,” said Santa Monica Department of Transportation Director Anuj Gupta. “The use of prohibition orders gives us another tool to improve the safety and security of our customers and operators, and is part of our broader customer experience plan aimed at enhancing Big Blue Bus safety, convenience, and attractiveness, and advancing our commitment to a Clean & Safe Santa Monica.”

Included in the bill is the creation of an advisory committee tasked with ensuring a compassionate approach to enforcement is taken and personnel issuing prohibition orders are properly trained. It also provides guardrails to ensure individuals facing a prohibition order may still travel to places of necessity, such as their job, medical or legal appointments, classes, or to state resources.

The new law supports the Santa Monica Department of Transportation’s ongoing efforts to improve overall safety for its riders and operators. In March, Big Blue Bus launched a Transit Safety Officer Program to strengthen system security. Transit Safety Officers are placed on high-traffic routes and at select bus stops, where they are most needed. The specially trained unarmed officers ensure riders feel comfortable and confident riding the system.

Big Blue Bus is also improving safety at its bus stops as part of its Better Blue Bus Stops Program, improving lighting, seating, and shade to enhance the rider experience.

Photo courtesy of the Office of Senator Ben Allen.