Nassau Standard

Senator Steve Rhoads, Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt, and members of the Senate Republican Conference recently presented a legislative package aimed at addressing issues within the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). The proposals target what they describe as out-of-control spending, reduced ridership, and increased crime, particularly on subways.

Despite the state's introduction of a $64.5 billion 5-year Capital plan for the MTA, questions about spending practices and accountability continue. Ridership has dropped compared to pre-pandemic levels, while assaults on police officers have surged by over 150% since 2019, and felony assaults increased by 55% compared to that year. Yet, state leadership proposes higher taxes in the MTA region to support the system financially.

Senator Rhoads emphasized the need for legislative reforms, stating: "For too long, the MTA has operated without accountability, wasting billions while demanding even more from hardworking New Yorkers... Our plan delivers real reforms to stop reckless spending, increase transparency, ensure Long Islanders get a fair deal on fares and, most importantly, make the system safer for every rider."

Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt criticized the current approach, saying: "The MTA needs accountability and transparency, and they need to prioritize rider safety – these bills being proposed by my colleagues in the Republican Conference will address these issues and restore some sanity to the horribly mismanaged MTA."

The proposed measures include allowing police officers to use MTA services for free while enhancing rider security, increasing penalties for crimes committed on MTA property, and establishing non-voting seats on the MTA Board for police representatives.

Other proposals focus on repealing congestion pricing, auditing the MTA, creating the Long Island Transportation Account for fare discounts, appointing an MTA Control Board for oversight, mandating transparency on capital repairs, and exempting Rockland and Orange counties from MTA payroll tax.

Senate Republicans stress that these reforms are essential in restoring accountability, transparency, and safety within the MTA.