VTA now has the right to ban any passenger from its system who has shown a pattern of bad behavior. In compliance with the new law, the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority is forming a new advisory committee made up of public citizens.
The Transit Security Advisory Committee will oversee the implementation of California Assembly Bill 1735 by establishing and enforcing prohibition orders for violations of transit customer codes of conduct.
Any Santa Clara resident is eligible to apply to be a part of this effort!
What is the TSAC?
California Assembly Bill 1735 (AB1735) aims to prohibit individuals who have assaulted VTA staff, members of the public, or committed code of conduct violations from riding VTA Transit and/or returning to VTA property. VTA is among only five agencies in the state granted this power within the law.
This committee provides valuable recommendations and feedback to the VTA Board of Directors on implementing and managing the VTA Customer Code of Conduct-Prohibition Authority Program.
Key responsibilities of the TSAC include:
- Training Recommendations: Advising on training for those responsible for issuing and enforcing prohibition orders.
- Service Identification: Identifying services and programs for individuals subject to prohibition orders.
- Monitoring: Overseeing the issuance of prohibition orders.
- Annual Reporting: Providing an annual report on the prohibition orders issued.
New Member Recruitment
We seek individuals who regularly use VTA’s transit system and are passionate about ensuring a safe and secure environment for all riders. Ideal TSAC members will have relevant knowledge and expertise in areas such as:
- Law enforcement
- Youth Advocacy
- Mental Health
- Community-based organization
Please note that U.S. citizenship is not required to serve on the TSAC.
How to Apply
The application for TSAC can be found online. It includes detailed information about the committee and membership requirements.
For questions about the Transit Security Advisory Committee or the application process, don't hesitate to get in touch with the VTA Board Office via email at board.secretary@vta.org or by calling (408) 321-5680.
Application Deadline is August 23rd. 2024.
Spread the Word
We encourage you to share this opportunity with your networks, particularly those involved in community-based organizations and individuals passionate about public transit and community safety. Your support is crucial in helping us build a diverse and dedicated committee that reflects the values and needs of our community.
Let's work together to ensure a safe and secure transit experience for everyone in our community!