(a) An authority may employ or contract for persons to serve as fare enforcement officers to enforce the payment of fares for use of the public transportation system by:
(1) requesting and inspecting evidence showing payment of the appropriate fare from a person using the public transportation system; and
(2) issuing a citation to a person described by Section 463.062(d).
(b) Before commencing duties as a fare enforcement officer, a person must complete at least eight hours of training approved by the authority that is appropriate to the duties required of a fare enforcement officer.
(c) While performing duties, a fare enforcement officer shall:
(1) wear a distinctive uniform, badge, or insignia that identifies the person as a fare enforcement officer; and
(2) work under the direction of the authority's chief executive officer.
(d) A fare enforcement officer may:
(1) request evidence showing payment of the appropriate fare from passengers of the public transportation system or evidence showing exemption from the payment requirement;
(2) request personal identification or other documentation designated by the authority from a passenger who does not produce evidence showing payment of the appropriate fare on request by the officer;
(3) instruct a passenger to immediately leave the public transportation system if the passenger does not possess evidence showing payment or exemption from payment of the appropriate fare; or
(4) file a complaint in the appropriate court that charges the person with an offense under Section 463.062(d).
(e) A fare enforcement officer may not carry a weapon while performing duties under this section unless the officer is a certified peace officer.
(f) A fare enforcement officer who is not a certified peace officer is not a peace officer and has no authority to enforce a criminal law, except as provided by this section.