MPs pass bill penalizing unpaid rides on public transport

PanARMENIAN.Net - The National Assembly has approved a draft law imposing a 15,000-dram fine for using public transport without paying the fare. The bill passed with 59 votes in favor and 26 against.

If a person uses a card not issued to them or one registered to a person with fare exemption status—or uses any exemption improperly—the fine is set at 15,000 drams. If the passenger is entitled to an exemption but fails to validate the card upon boarding, the fine will be 3,000 drams.

During the July 2 session, Deputy Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure Armen Simonyan explained that specific provisions are included within the administrative procedure. A person who refuses to pay or identify themselves may face administrative detention under legally defined procedures and bear administrative liability accordingly.