On 19 October 2026 the government issued guidance for local transport authorities across England on using new powers to tackle nuisance behaviour on buses, including loud music, littering, vaping and threatening behaviour. The legal powers came into force on 5 August 2026 under the Bus Services Act 2025, and authorities could issue fixed penalties of up to £100. Each local byelaw requires sign-off from the Secretary of State before it can be enforced, and bus drivers are not responsible for enforcement; authorised officers including transport safety officers and police deal with incidents.

A separate industry-led rail campaign reported at the same date encouraged passengers to use headphones, with audio reminders. Passengers who refused to stop when asked by authorised rail staff could be removed at the next station or face fines up to a maximum of £1,000, the department said.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander both backed the measures. West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker and Campaign for Better Transport chief executive Ben Plowden welcomed the guidance.