The California Senate Public Safety Committee convened on July 1, 2025, to discuss Assembly Bill 394, aimed at enhancing protections for transit workers and riders against violence and harassment. The bill, presented by Assembly Member Wilson, addresses the alarming rise in assaults on transit employees and passengers, which has raised concerns about safety and public confidence in transit systems.

AB 394 proposes several key measures. It expands existing penalties for battery to include all transit employees, not just operators, thereby covering roles such as transit ambassadors and ticket agents. The bill also clarifies that employers can petition for temporary restraining orders (TROs) on behalf of employees facing harassment or threats, specifically within the public transit context. Furthermore, it ensures that these restraining orders apply across all transit vehicles and facilities, aiming to prevent repeat offenses.

Supporters of the bill, including representatives from various transit agencies and labor unions, emphasized the importance of worker safety. Bill Churchill, General Manager of County Connection, highlighted that a small number of individuals are responsible for a disproportionate amount of violence, and that obtaining TROs has significantly improved safety for both employees and passengers.

However, the bill faced opposition from groups like the ACLU, which argued that increasing penalties and imposing system-wide transit bans could exacerbate issues for vulnerable populations who rely on public transportation. Critics expressed concerns that such measures might lead to deeper poverty for those who depend on transit as their only means of transportation.

During the committee discussion, members acknowledged the need for balance between protecting transit workers and ensuring access for all riders. Some expressed support for the bill while urging consideration of proportionality in the application of transit bans, particularly for individuals who may not pose a continuous threat.

The committee ultimately supported the bill, recognizing the critical need to address safety concerns in California's transit systems while also considering the implications for vulnerable riders. The bill will proceed to the judiciary committee for further review and potential amendments.