By Lookout Staff

July 2, 2025 -- Starting on Wednesday, Big Blue Bus (BBB) passengers who have been routinely cited for policy infractions or arrested for crimes on buses or at transit facilities can be denied service.

Under a new State law authored by Santa Monica Senator Ben Allen, BBB can issue prohibition orders that can last from 30 days to one year to passengers who repeatedly violate the agency's Code of Conduct.

The code lists behaviors that range from spitting and leaving trash behind to being drunk or disorderly to inciting violence or soliciting sexual conduct.

The code also sets guidelines for animals, bulky items, carts and strollers, and addresses "boarding, exiting and seating," as well as disorderly conduct and uncivil behavior.

“The Prohibition Order Program helps us ensure a safe and welcoming environment for Big Blue Bus riders and operators by giving us another tool to enforce our Customer Code of Conduct,” said Transportation Director Anuj Gupta.

“The program supports our broader efforts to enhance the transit experience, so our customers can Ride with Confidence knowing that Big Blue Bus is safe, reliable, and inclusive for all riders.”

Under SB 1417, a prohibition order can be issued to any person who:

• On at least three separate occasions within a period of 90 consecutive days is cited for an infraction committed on a transit district property, facility or vehicle.
  
  
• Is arrested or convicted for a misdemeanor or felony committed in or on a vehicle, bus stop or light rail station "for acts involving violence, threats of violence, lewd or lascivious behavior, or possession for sale or sale of a controlled substance."
  
• Is convicted of violating the Health and Safety Code by loitering "in a manner and under circumstances manifesting the purpose and with the intent to commit an offense" as specified in the code.

The Senate bill requires that an advisory committee be established to ensure that "a compassionate approach to enforcement is taken and that personnel issuing prohibition orders are properly trained," Transit officials said.

Since 2019, Santa Monica buses have seen an increase in passenger disturbances, assaults, code of conduct violations and health and safety concerns, according to transit officials.

In March of last year, unarmed security guards began patrolling select buses and bus stops to deter crime and unwanted behavior ("Guards to Begin Patrolling City Buses," March 8, 2024).