Masshole parks in bus stop, bus pulls up ahead to let off passenger in wheelchair, Masshole can't wait, drives over wheelchair ramp, police say

I didn't even think that these things existed as they seem a bit complicated to implement in practice, thanks for doing the research! I skimmed the text of the MA bill. It looks good at first but then I came across this line "SECTION 3. (a) The maximum fine imposed under this chapter for a camera enforceable violation shall be $25 per violation. "

The articles about the SF and NY programs show that fines are between $50 and $280. A $25 fine doesn't sound like it would come near covering the cost of implementation, hardware, training, maintenance, challenges etc. The MA program will operate at a big loss and it's hardly a deterrent for most people.

There is this prevailing stupid idea in MA that no matter how dangerous a driver, what's most important is not to hurt their wallet or their feelings. I plan on reading that bill more thoroughly over the weekend and (politely) ask the petitioners reps what's up with that. If anything noteworthy comes out of it, I will report it here.

We should absolutely be passing this bill, though with two changes: one, like dvg wrote, the fine should be much higher than $25, and two, it's a bit unclear to me if the ticketing would also apply to bus stops, and not just bus lanes. This is an important difference. There are many bus stops - particularly those outside convenience stores and high-volume takeout spots - in which people park without impunity (typically leaving their flashers on as if that makes it ok). It also reflects a self-entitlement that the safety and convenience of bus passengers is less important than their own. Like Neal said, I've seen numerous older folks, people pushing strollers, etc. having to struggle on and off the bus because some dingbat left their car in the bus stop.

The bus lane cameras in New York work: Less than 20 percent of drivers who are issued a bus lane violation go on to commit another.. I think there are also studies showing that lanes with camera enforcement have higher bus speeds than those without. The other thing that NYC announced was a dedicated tow fleet for patrolling bus lanes, complete with a DeBlasio press conference at a tow lot. The T could put a couple of tow trucks on the streets (or even contract it out) and it would pay for itself.

Why shouldn't the handicapped take public transit? How else are they going to get around without driving?