McGowan: Congestion Pricing Halted

A Statement from Assemblyman John McGowan (R,C-Rockland) on Gov. Hochul’s decision to pause the implementation of congestion pricing.

“While I am pleased the New York City congestion pricing program will be delayed from its planned June 30 commencement date, this delay is not enough—we must fully rescind this disastrous policy. Congestion pricing will unfairly cost Hudson Valley commuters $4,000 annually and fails to make fundamental considerations, such as a full exemption for first responders and medical professionals, a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement and the severe localized pollution for areas outside of Manhattan caused by altered traffic patterns.

“This program is nothing more than a punitive tax for commuters, designed to provide a billion-dollar bailout for the mismanaged MTA. As there are existing lawsuits against this program, I am fully committed to repealing congestion pricing through my legislation with Sen. Andrew Lanza.

“I applaud and congratulate all the advocacy from different groups, stakeholders and constituents that delivered us this victory. The governor and state Legislature are clearly listening and they have heard us loud and clear, congestion pricing in New York City has broad opposition within New York as well as neighboring states, and they must reverse course. Let's remain determined to put hardworking New Yorkers first and demand this program is fully terminated.”