The New York City Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is currently testing new fare gates designed to reduce fare evasion, which costs the agency approximately $1 billion annually. The prototype gates, featuring glass doors with AI sensors and alarms, are being piloted at eight stations with plans to expand to 20 stations by early 2026. MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber stated that most incidents of individuals getting stuck in the gates are attempts to evade fares, including a recent case involving a five-year-old girl who was hospitalized after her head got caught. Lieber emphasized that the system is still in the testing phase and some issues are expected, such as people attempting to bypass the gates by going underneath or doubling up. The gates are designed to recognize small persons and facilitate access for individuals with disabilities and strollers, but parents are advised to supervise children closely. Additionally, another company, Cubic, is testing quieter gates with cameras at the Atlantic Avenue-Barclays Center station. The MTA plans to invest $1.1 billion to install new fare gates at 150 stations by 2029. Despite the technological safeguards, some craftiness persists among fare evaders. Meanwhile, the MTA CEO defended the gates, stating they are meant to prevent fare evasion and improve system security, though some hiccups are expected during the pilot phase.