Niagara Leader

New York State Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt, alongside Senator Rob Rolison, Senator-elect Steve Chan, and community advocates, criticized Governor Kathy Hochul's decision to revive congestion pricing. This move follows a pause that coincided with the election period. According to Ortt, "Senate Republicans have recognized from the start what congestion price really is: yet another burdensome tax on hardworking New Yorkers."

The governor plans to reinstate the tax at a reduced level of $9, despite lacking statutory authority for such changes. Chapter 59 of the Laws of 2019 requires legislative approval to reduce the rate below $15. "Elected officials from both political parties ought to be fighting against this onerous new tax," added Ortt.

Senator-elect Steve Chan expressed skepticism about the timing of Hochul's decision: "The suspension of congestion pricing was nothing but an election year dog and pony show." He emphasized that a significant portion of New Yorkers oppose the plan.

Senator Rob Rolison argued against reviving congestion pricing without addressing other financial inefficiencies first. He noted that "the MTA identified $700 million in lost revenue to toll and fare scofflaws" in a recent report.

Assemblyman Michael Novakho described the reintroduction as a betrayal, stating it lacks transparency and consideration for struggling families. He affirmed his opposition to the policy and support for alternatives that benefit communities.

Legislation demands that congestion pricing generates enough revenue for a $15 billion bond for the MTA Capital Plan. The Republican Conference has consistently opposed this measure but faced rejection from the Democratic Majority.

"If Governor Hochul’s new congestion pricing plan comes back before the Legislature for a vote," Ortt concluded, he anticipates bipartisan opposition despite previous support from some Democrats.