I recently turned in my old ones (separate MetroNorth & LIRR - that's how old they were) for a new one at no cost. I've been thinking about laminating. Let me know if you do it successfully.
Carol

"I laminated mine many months ago and never had a problem with any conductor not accepting it. It was preety worn down already when I laminated it, with fuzzy edges and rounded corners, but still perfectly readable.

I used wide, transparent, adhesive tape, taped both sides and trimmed it with some 1/8"" margin of tape (to keep it from peeling apart)."

Keeps it compact. I've had mine going on seven years now.

For other innovative uses of rubber bands, consult the expert, Hank Schiffman. (E.g., tie two or four together with half-knots and you have a bungee cord for train rides. Indispensable.)

I get two daily papers and so am always looking for ways to use all those rubber bands. If anyone needs some, feel free to ask.