This is correct in my experience. We were legal residents in Germany for decades before coming home to the states. Having worked in a number of European nations, I have personally seen "migrants," school kids and teenagers, and even grannies ticketed for fare evasion.
The Democrats' current mania of charging nothing to those evading paying and expecting taxpayers to pay is insanity. And a crude form of idiot socialism, because even in some socialist nations throughout the 20th century, you were "given" a job, no matter how menial. The modern Democrats think there is a tree with free money for leaves, ripe for their harvest. Of course, the greater "share" of the harvest seems to end up in their pockets....
Here's a notion. Have the BART directors do their work without pay and without benefits. See how long they stick around....
Individual European cities and even entire countries (Luxembourg) have introduced "payless Saturdays" on which everyone can ride for free.
It "grinds my gears" although I suppose that there's no political (Socialist) message behind it, but rather only an attempt to alter traffic patterns, reduce the number of cars on the road, or stimulate shopping.
Regards,