Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Transit Health Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Assembly approves bill requiring MTA to notify riders of bedbug discoveries
Summary
Lawmakers passed a bill directing the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to notify customers within 24 hours when it discovers a bedbug infestation on trains, subways or buses. The bill drew questions about specificity, notification channels and potential rider impact.
The Assembly passed legislation requiring the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to inform customers within 24 hours when the authority discovers a bedbug infestation on subways, trains or buses. The bill passed 102–37.
Sponsor Assemblymember Colton said the MTA may use its existing notification systems — website notices, email or text alerts — to inform riders when a bedbug problem has been found and to update riders on remedial action. “This bill would require the MTA to inform customers of a bedbug infestation on any subways, trains, and buses within 24 hours of discovery,” Colton said on the floor.
Questioners pressed for detail about thresholds and specificity. Assemblymember Gandolfo asked who would report and verify an infestation and whether a single bedbug would meet the threshold; Colton responded the MTA would investigate complaints and that an ‘‘infestation’’ typically indicates more than one sighting and would be determined by MTA supervisors.
Members also asked how specific the notice must be. Colton said the MTA would have discretion over notice content and could, where feasible, identify a line or bus route; the bill does not mandate a precise car or vehicle identifier. Critics said that general notices on a website may not reach riders who used a particular vehicle and that the measure could give the MTA cover without meaningful rider protection.
Supporters argued the bill improves transparency and that the MTA already operates notification systems for delays and other service issues; the sponsor said the measure imposes minimal fiscal impact because it uses existing channels. Opponents warned that a broad notice could alarm riders and potentially depress ridership.
The vote was Ayes 102, Nays 37; sponsors said the act takes effect immediately. Supporters described the change as a modest transparency step; critics called for more-detailed reporting or broader public-health steps if evidence points to transmission on transit.
Votes at a glance: Assembly bill (calendar 108) — require MTA notification of bedbug infestations within 24 hours; outcome: passed, Ayes 102, Nays 37.
