Establish and Enforce Clear Standards for Respectful Travel on Amtrak Pacific Surfliner


Establish and Enforce Clear Standards for Respectful Travel on Amtrak Pacific Surfliner
The Issue
The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is one of California’s most scenic and widely used rail routes, serving commuters, families, tourists, and students. In the last several years, groups of passengers have often created highly disruptive environments by playing loud music with offensive language, yelling across the car, cursing, and behaving as though the train were a private party. Families, children, and other travelers in these situations are left with no option but to endure the disruptions.
What made the situation worse was that no action was taken to restore order. This raises an important concern in that if Amtrak has standards of conduct for passengers, they need to be communicated and enforced. If not, they should be created so that all passengers know what is expected. Travelers deserve to feel confident that their journey will be safe, respectful, and comfortable.
We respectfully call on Amtrak to:
- Establish and publish clear expectations for passenger conduct regarding noise, music, language, and disruptive behavior.
- Provide the necessary resources and training to staff in order to address these issues consistently and effectively.
- Communicate expectations clearly to all riders at boarding and during trips.
- Publicly commit to maintaining a safe, family-friendly, and respectful environment for every passenger.
The Pacific Surfliner should be remembered for its scenic views, comfort, and accessibility. Not for unruly behavior that diminishes the experience for others. By taking clear and consistent steps, Amtrak can ensure that this way to travel remains an enjoyable and reliable option for everyone.
Please consider signing this petition to encourage Amtrak leadership to adopt and enforce clear standards that protect the comfort and experience of all passengers.
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The Issue
The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is one of California’s most scenic and widely used rail routes, serving commuters, families, tourists, and students. In the last several years, groups of passengers have often created highly disruptive environments by playing loud music with offensive language, yelling across the car, cursing, and behaving as though the train were a private party. Families, children, and other travelers in these situations are left with no option but to endure the disruptions.
What made the situation worse was that no action was taken to restore order. This raises an important concern in that if Amtrak has standards of conduct for passengers, they need to be communicated and enforced. If not, they should be created so that all passengers know what is expected. Travelers deserve to feel confident that their journey will be safe, respectful, and comfortable.
We respectfully call on Amtrak to:
- Establish and publish clear expectations for passenger conduct regarding noise, music, language, and disruptive behavior.
- Provide the necessary resources and training to staff in order to address these issues consistently and effectively.
- Communicate expectations clearly to all riders at boarding and during trips.
- Publicly commit to maintaining a safe, family-friendly, and respectful environment for every passenger.
The Pacific Surfliner should be remembered for its scenic views, comfort, and accessibility. Not for unruly behavior that diminishes the experience for others. By taking clear and consistent steps, Amtrak can ensure that this way to travel remains an enjoyable and reliable option for everyone.
Please consider signing this petition to encourage Amtrak leadership to adopt and enforce clear standards that protect the comfort and experience of all passengers.
43
The Decision Makers



Petition created on September 22, 2025