Chicago public trains and buses could become no-commerce zones.
The local transit authority this week voted to outlaw begging, selling and soliciting on public transportation, saying some panhandlers and peddlers are so persistent they are virtually robbing riders.The City Council would have to approve the ordinance, which carries a $300 fine for violators.
Chicago Transit Authority board members said they voted for the ban because several riders complained about the problem. CTA President Robert Belcaster said paying customers are entitled to enjoy their ride "without being badgered or hassled."
Only one board member voted against the proposal, saying begging should not be treated as a crime.
James Charlton agreed it was reasonable to ban begging, but said it was impractical to fine those who are caught asking for money. He added that public transportation riders object to beggars because "they don't like people different from themselves."
But police and agency officials said some panhandlers are so aggressive they pressure passengers into giving them money "almost like a form of robbery."
"I think a passenger who pays a fare is entitled to get where he wants to go without being badgered or hassled," said Belcaster.
Some peddlers at a public hearing on the proposed ban said the CTA is inflating the number of rider complaints. But Christopher Parsons, who publishes Streetwise, a newspaper sold by homeless people to raise money, said he doesn't allow his vendors to sell the paper on public transportation.
"The reason is basic. When you're on a bus or train you're a captive audience and it's not fair to have to listen to anyone's spiel."