Public Transportation Fare Evasion in Ontario: An Analysis

The question as to why the amount you pay in public transportation, like the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), is not counted for tax deduction is rooted in the unique operational structure of public transportation systems. This article aims to clarify the processes and policies surrounding public transportation fare evasion in Ontario, particularly within the context of the TTC, and explore the underlying reasons for the absence of metering and fare verification.

Fare Deduction Policies

Contrary to what some may think, there is a pathway for deducting the cost of public transportation from your taxes. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) allows passengers to claim their TTC monthly pass as a business expense if the travel is deemed a "business necessity." This deduction is available for those who use the TTC on a regular basis for work-related purposes. However, the extent to which this is utilized is a matter of speculation, as the number of individuals who take this deduction is not public knowledge.

Widespread Fare Evasion

The fare evasion issue in Toronto is a well-documented and significant problem. The vast majority of ridership on the TTC now relies on electronic smartcards, but enforcement of fare payment remains lax. Many transit vehicles lack functional fareboxes, and there is often a lack of confirmation from drivers whether a correct amount has been entered. Moreover, fare evaders can slip through without immediate detection if the card readers are malfunctioning or if passengers enter behind those tapping their cards.

Reasons Behind Operational Philosphy

At the core of the issue is the decision by the TTC and other transit systems in Ontario to use electronic fare systems, particularly smartcards, which do not rely on traditional fareboxes that require verification. The reasoning behind this is multifaceted:

No Driver-Passenger Interaction

The lack of a meter means there is no direct interaction between the driver and the passenger in terms of fare payment. In cases where a passenger under-pays, the most a driver could do is issue a warning, which would be ineffective in deterring fare evasion in the long term. Moreover, asking for a higher fare from a passenger who has already entered a card or inserted cash poses significant risks:

Passengers might become hostile and verbally or physically confront the driver, especially if the fare difference is minimal. Anything more than a warning would be seen as an unreasonable imposition by the driver and could lead to legal complications for the transit authority.

Due to these risks, drivers are trained to avoid direct confrontation regarding fare discrepancies.

Enforcement by Security and Police

Fare enforcement is recognized as a specialized task that should not be left to transit operators. The responsibility for fare evasion enforcement lies with transit security personnel or transit police. This distinction ensures that any enforcement actions are conducted in a professional and safe manner, protecting both the passengers and the drivers.

Conclusion

The absence of metering and fare verification systems in many transit vehicles in Ontario is a conscious decision made to prioritize the safety and efficiency of the transportation system. While fare evasion is a widespread issue, the operational policies in place are designed to minimize conflict and ensure a smooth flow of traffic.

It is important to recognize that while deducting transportation expenses is allowable for business purposes, the utilization of such deductions is not as widespread as one might expect. The complexity and nuances of public transportation systems in Ontario warrant a deeper understanding and consistent enforcement to ensure fairness and reliability for all users.