New York Advocacy Groups Sue Hochul Over Congestion Pricing Delay

Transit and environmental advocacy groups in New York have filed lawsuits against Governor Kathy Hochul, challenging her recent decision to indefinitely pause a congestion pricing plan aimed at reducing traffic and funding the city’s subway system. The lawsuits, filed in state Supreme Court, argue that Hochul violated state laws and the constitution by blocking a toll that was set to charge drivers approximately $15 for entering Manhattan. This toll was expected to generate around $1 billion annually for transit improvements. The plaintiffs, including the Riders Alliance, the Sierra Club, and the New York City Environmental Justice Alliance, contend that Hochul’s decision infringes on New Yorkers' constitutional right to a clean environment. They emphasize that the toll had already been approved by state lawmakers and was signed into law by Hochul's predecessor. In response, Hochul's office dismissed the lawsuits as politically motivated, asserting that the governor remains focused on funding transit and addressing congestion. Hochul has cited economic concerns and feedback from New Yorkers as reasons for her decision, suggesting alternative revenue sources such as raising business taxes to compensate for the lost funds. Advocates for the toll, including Betsy Plum of the Riders Alliance, argue that congestion pricing would benefit New Yorkers by improving public transit and reducing traffic-related issues, including pollution and accidents. Prior to her recent reversal, Hochul had been a strong proponent of the toll, describing it as a transformative measure. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority had already begun preparations for the program, including installing necessary infrastructure.