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NEW YORK (FOX 5 NEWS) - Spotty service over the past month has some New Jersey Transit rail riders taking a stand. Fed up with seemingly never-ending delays and disruptions, some riders say they're ready to vote with their pocketbooks. On social media, commuters and transit advocates are using the hashtag #nopaymay to encourage riders to present their April monthly passes in May to protest dismal service.
Last month, an NJ Transit train derailed at Penn Station and another train was stuck in a Hudson River tunnel for hours snarling commutes for countless customers. Now NJT has warned riders to expect at least 15-minute delays on trains in and out of Penn Station due to ongoing Amtrak track repairs.
Rider Latesa Pannell doesn't use a monthly pass but would consider not buying a one-time ticket to show her frustration. She said she isn't too worried about being kicked off.
In a statement, NJ Transit said: "Rail conductors are empowered to use their discretion. An example of this is when a regular customer forgets their monthly pass; there is a process in place which allows the customer to travel that day. The removal of a customer from a train or a bus and the enlistment of law enforcement are used as last resorts if the customer refuses to pay fare."
Some commuters say they'll go ahead paying their fares despite frustration, but do believe the movement could at least attract necessary attention.
"We are pleased to report customers are presenting their May monthly passes to conductors," NJ Transit said.