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Janae Pierre: Welcome to NYC Now, your source for local news in and around New York City. From WNYC, it's Tuesday, December 31st. Here's the morning headlines from Michael Hill.

Michael Hill: The MTA is about to revamp its penalties for people who evade the fare. As WNYC's John Campbell reports, it's among a number of new laws taking effect in January.

John Campbell: Under the new system, someone who skips payment on the bus or subway will be issued a written warning for a first offense. A second offense draws $100 fine, half of which is given back on a fare card if they pay the fine on time. Each subsequent offense will cost $150. Other measures taking effect in 2025 include an increase in the minimum wage. The hourly rate is set to jump to $16.50 in New York City, Westchester, and on Long Island. That's up from $16. It'll be $15.50 in the rest of the state.

Michael Hill: New York Governor Kathy Hochul is making what advocates are calling sweeping reforms of the state prison system. WNYC's Charles Lane explains.

Charles Lane: Hochul's changes come after the release of videos showing the beating of a handcuffed man, Robert Brooks, who later died. Hochul will replace the head of the Marcy Correctional Facility, will install more cameras throughout the entire system, and boost funding for watchdog groups. Jennifer Skates, the executive director of one such group, the Correctional Association of New York. She has been reporting on similar allegations for years.

Jennifer Skates: I think, this time there was irrefutable evidence in color, in video, for people to see.

Charles Lane: Hochul is also calling for an outside group to report on the culture inside the correctional system.

Michael Hill: It's New Year's Eve and New York City's Director of the Office of Nightlife has some tips for partygoers on how to stay safe. NYC's Sean Carlson has more.

Sean Carlson: The city's so-called Nightlife Mayor, Jeffrey Garcia, says you should always let your family and friends know where you'll be for the evening. For that matter, make sure your phone is charged when you hit the streets. He also says if you're drinking, be smart.

Jeffrey Garcia: Know your limits. When you're going out drinking, you're having fun. Be careful who you accept drinks from. Make sure that if you're out with friends, you're accepting drinks from friends.

Sean Carlson: Garcia is also urging people to be good bystanders. If you see someone else who might be in a bad situation or see something that doesn't look right, call Security or 911.

Michael Hill: If your plans include Times Square, the New Year's Eve ball drop, the NYPD says it's well prepared to secure the area. Taking a look now at your commute this morning. Northbound 2 and 3 trains running with delays. NJ Transit buses and trains operating on a holiday schedule today and tomorrow. 43 and clear now. Mostly sunny in mid-50s. Overnight rain and maybe a thunderstorm. Steady temperature around 48.

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Janae Pierre: Thanks for listening. This is NYC Now from WNYC. Be sure to catch us every weekday, three times a day for your top news headlines and occasional deep dives. And subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. See you this afternoon.

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