As D.C passes it's new crime bill in efforts to reduce crime in the district, we see the establishment of a new policy for fare evasion and enforcement that can lead to many students facing interactions and consequences with law enforcement and the D.C community. 

We have seen other neighboring colleges & universities partake in the WMATA U-Pass program detailed here, ( https://www.wmata.com/fares/U-Pass/u-pass-schools.cfm ) but we have yet to see the Howard University fall upon this list. 

This program allows students unlimited rides on Metrorail and Metrobus throughout the semester. U-Pass is included in the cost of tuition at participating schools (equivalent to $1 per day).

As a current Senior Political Science major at Howard University, I believe now is the time for action as we see an increase in enforcement by D.C government in regarding crime and fair evasion. This is an important step in bettering the relationship between Howard University and the D.C community as we tackle economical and social issues. This will also allow for students to feel relieved and at ease when having to transit in and around the D.C Metro Area. 

More Information on the U-Pass Program can be found at https://www.wmata.com/fares/Student-Programs.cfm/