Fairness on Public Transportation
A Call for Compassion and Justice in Israel’s Public Transportation System
Moving Forward in Peace and Fairness.
In recent years, concerns have grown about the quota system for bus inspectors, where drivers and ticket checkers are pressured to issue a certain number of fines. This practice has created an environment of stress, fear, and unfair treatment. Instead of offering a warning or understanding when someone forgets to validate a ticket, citizens — including students, elderly, tourists, and working families — face harsh penalties for what is often an honest mistake.
Public transportation is the lifeline of Israel. It connects our communities, carries our soldiers, and serves those who cannot afford private cars. It should never become a source of unnecessary conflict.
Why This Matters
Unjust Consequences: A forgotten card tap or an innocent mistake should not result in financial hardship.
Lack of Compassion: Instead of warnings or education, fines are issued immediately.
Loss of Trust: Citizens begin to see public systems as predatory rather than supportive.
Our Proposal
The Embassy of Benevolence is calling for:
Ending Ticket Quotas – Inspectors should not be pressured to issue fines but encouraged to help riders comply.
First-Time Warnings – Allowing passengers one warning before a fine is issued.
Days of Leniency – On fast days and national days of reflection, inspectors should practice compassion, ensuring citizens can focus on prayer, community, and peace without fear of conflict on buses.
Moving Forward
Israel is a nation called to justice and fairness. We believe it is possible to balance accountability with compassion. By reforming this system, we can restore dignity and strengthen trust between the people and those serving them.
Join us in petitioning for change. Let’s make Israel’s buses not just a way to travel, but a system that reflects the values of fairness, kindness, and community.
“We’re trying to draw a line between the real freeloaders and people who paid but didn’t activate their ticket… It doesn’t make sense to slap the same huge fine on someone who shelled out for a pass but forgot to scan it.”
—MK Moshe Roth