BART develops cell policy after free-speech uproar

Leaders of the San Francisco Bay Area's transit agency say they may adopt a policy allowing police to turn off wireless communications on train platforms — but only in extreme public safety circumstances.

The board of the Bay Area Rapid Transit system held a special public meeting to discuss the issue. BART ignited a global debate over free speech when it cut cellphone and wireless data service in San Francisco subway stations earlier this month to disrupt plans for a protest. Dozens of people attended the meeting to speak against the wireless shut-off. Some called for the disbanding of BART police and the firing of its chief spokesman. The board rejected those demands, and it didn't take any formal votes. But members say they expect to adopt a formal policy within a month. (Aug 24)