Rockland Reporter

The New York City congestion pricing program, initially set to commence on June 30, has been delayed. Assemblymember Mary McGowan expressed her satisfaction with the postponement but emphasized that a complete rescindment of the policy is necessary.

"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," McGowan stated. She argued that the program would impose an annual cost of $4,000 on Hudson Valley commuters and lacks essential considerations such as exemptions for first responders and medical professionals, a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement, and addressing severe localized pollution in areas outside Manhattan due to altered traffic patterns.

McGowan criticized the program as "nothing more than a punitive tax for commuters, designed to provide a billion-dollar bailout for the mismanaged MTA." She also noted ongoing lawsuits against the initiative and affirmed her commitment to repealing it through legislation with Senator Andrew Lanza.

"I applaud and congratulate all the advocacy from different groups, stakeholders and constituents that delivered us this victory," she added. McGowan called on state officials to listen to widespread opposition within New York and neighboring states and reverse their course on congestion pricing. "Let's remain determined to put hardworking New Yorkers first and demand this program is fully terminated."