Talk Back: LIRR Quiet Car Expansion

On Monday, the Long Island Railroad expanded its program for "quiet cars" to include one car on all peak single-level electric trains that operate to and from Penn Station and Atlantic Terminal during peak hours.

Cell phone conversations, loud talking and electronic device noises are all discouraged on the quiet cars. According to an MTA representative, commuters who violate those conditions in a quiet car will be handed a "shhh" card by a conductor.

The program began in December on the Far Rockaway line and later expanded to the Hempstead, Long Beach and West Hempstead branches. The westernmost car on each peak train will be designated as the quiet car.

After its launch, LIRR president Helena Williams reported on the MTA website that the program was met with an initial positive response from commuters: "It's had a lot of support. Some customers really do like it," she wrote.

However, some critics say the program infringes on commuters' freedom. Other skeptics say the rules will be difficult to enforce.

We want to know what local commuters think. Are quiet cars a good idea or do they infringe on your personal freedom? Will the rules be enforceable? What are the biggest nuisances you face on your daily commute?

Vote in our poll or tell us in the comments.