Nassau Standard

Long Island, NY – A coalition of New York State Republican Senators, union leaders, and farmers gathered to express their opposition to Governor Kathy Hochul's congestion pricing plan. They urged the Governor to reconsider her support for the initiative, which they argue imposes an additional tax burden on New Yorkers and exacerbates affordability issues in the state.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) board recently approved a base toll starting at $9, which is set to increase to $12 between 2028 and 2030, eventually reaching $15 by 2031. This decision has raised concerns among local businesses and commuters who fear higher costs.

Senator Steve Rhoads criticized the Governor's timing, stating that her actions reveal "a political stunt that prioritizes her radical agenda" while ignoring MTA mismanagement. He argued that congestion pricing would impose an unnecessary financial burden on hardworking New Yorkers.

Union leaders also voiced their disapproval. Michael Mulgrew from the United Federation of Teachers stated, "Governor Hochul heard the concerns of educators and ordinary New Yorkers," commending her previous pause on congestion pricing. Patrick Hendry from the Police Benevolent Association highlighted its potential negative impact on public safety due to understaffing issues in the NYPD.

Gregory Floyd from Local 237 Teamsters praised Hochul's earlier decision to delay congestion pricing, emphasizing that it spared working people from unaffordable costs. The Long Island Association expressed similar sentiments regarding regional affordability challenges.

Rob Carpenter of the New York Farmers Bureau noted how increased business costs could impact consumers if passed onto them. Vincent Gaynor from Local 638 Steamfitters criticized policies perceived as neglectful towards middle-class workers.

Several Senators including Jack Martins, Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Anthony Palumbo, Dean Murray, Mario Mattera, and Alexis Weik echoed these concerns during the press conference. They called for alternative solutions such as addressing MTA inefficiencies instead of imposing new taxes on commuters.

The Senators remain worried about introducing congestion pricing during peak holiday season when public engagement may be low. They urge Governor Hochul to prioritize local economic needs over bureaucratic agendas by seeking fairer ways to fund transit in New York State.