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Congressional members from New York and New Jersey have reintroduced bipartisan legislation to end congestion pricing in New York City. On Wednesday (January 15), Democrat Josh Gottheimer and Republicans Jeff Van Drew and Nicole Malliotakis announced their efforts to halt the nine-dollar charge for most drivers entering Manhattan below 60th Street. They argue that the fee burdens hard-working families and demand accountability from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA).
The proposed legislation aims to block the MTA from receiving federal grants until all drivers from New York and New Jersey are exempt from the toll. It also requires an economic impact analysis before the tolling can continue and calls for an audit of the MTA's use of funds over the past five years.
Congressman Josh Gottheimer criticized the congestion pricing as a "cash grab" by the MTA, while Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis accused New York officials of treating residents like "bottomless ATMs."
The legislation is a response to concerns that congestion pricing unfairly impacts New Jersey commuters, who already contribute significantly through tolls and taxes. The bills were initially introduced between 2022 and 2023 but remain unchanged, according to a spokesperson for Gottheimer.
The lawmakers argue that the congestion tax exacerbates the high cost of living in the region, prompting many residents to leave. They emphasize the need for cooperation between New York and New Jersey to address shared economic challenges.