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Updates proposed for DDOT rider Code of Conduct

January 28, 2026

The Detroit Department of Transportation has introduced revisions to its passenger Code of Conduct, establishing a two-tier system for addressing inappropriate behavior on buses, with penalties ranging from seven-day suspensions to permanent bans depending on violation severity. Officials emphasized their focus on de-escalation and peaceful conflict resolution rather than punitive measures that could lead to incarceration. The policy changes, presented at a January 15 community meeting, will be submitted to City Council for approval following an ordinance passed nearly a year ago authorizing DDOT to enforce conduct rules.

Who is affected

  • DDOT (Detroit Department of Transportation) bus riders and passengers
  • City Council members (Gabriela Santiago-Romero, Mary Waters, Scott Benson, Mary Sheffield)
  • Members of the Tenants' Rights Commission
  • Detroiters facing potential ICE enforcement
  • Butch Hollowell, Andre Brown, and Keith Williams (Public Lighting Authority Board candidates)
  • Young adults aged 18-35 in Detroit
  • Detroit residents concerned about animal welfare and neighborhood safety
  • People using Gratiot Avenue

What action is being taken

  • DDOT is updating and unveiling changes to its Code of Conduct with a two-tier violation system
  • Council Member Santiago-Romero is working to meet with Mayor Sheffield to finalize ICE protection plans
  • The City Council is considering candidates for the Public Lighting Authority Board of Directors
  • Council Member Waters is requesting a legal opinion on paying Tenants' Rights Commission members

Why it matters

  • This matters because the new Code of Conduct will directly impact how Detroit's public transportation system manages passenger behavior, affecting accessibility to essential transit services for residents who depend on buses for daily transportation. The emphasis on de-escalation over punitive measures reflects a broader shift toward restorative justice approaches in public services, potentially preventing marginalized riders from facing criminal consequences for minor infractions. The policy also establishes formal appeal processes and transparent disciplinary procedures, creating accountability mechanisms that protect both passenger rights and public safety on Detroit's transit system.

What's next

  • The Code of Conduct policy will be submitted to City Council for review
  • Council Member Santiago-Romero hopes to meet with Mayor Sheffield within the next week regarding ICE protection plans
  • City Council must select and confirm one person from three candidates for the Public Lighting Authority Board
  • A town hall with young adults is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on February 17 at Developing KIDS

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com