Nearly two-thirds of D.C. Metrobus riders are skipping fares. Now Metro wants an 11% increase for paying customers

Before asking paying riders for more money, Metro needs to explain why fare evasion remains so widespread and what it plans to do about it.

A new report from Washington, D.C., finds "64% of bus riders still do not pay fares," which is threatening the sustainability of the city's public transportation.

D.C.'s solution? An 11 percent fare hike for those who do pay. pic.twitter.com/ugwrO7xRdA

— Tom Elliott (@tomselliott) November 10, 2026

Factcheck:
Yes, real. At a Nov. 5, 2026 WMATA board meeting, officials reported 64% of Metrobus riders still skip fares despite enforcement campaigns. GM Randy Clarke cited this (plus inflation and costs) as a driver of the budget shortfall, while advancing an 11% fare hike proposal for paying riders and considering service cuts. Reported by WJLA and others.