Rockland Reporter

Congressman Mike Lawler has responded to Governor Kathy Hochul's request for increased federal funding for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). In a statement issued from Washington, D.C., Lawler expressed strong criticism of the MTA's management.

"The MTA’s management is an absolute train wreck; they lose billions of dollars every year and are the worst-run authority in America. They carry more debt than 80% of the states in the country," said Congressman Lawler. He further emphasized the need for accountability within the organization, stating, "A full forensic audit is urgently needed and the entire management team — starting with Janno Lieber — should be fired."

Lawler concluded his remarks by opposing federal intervention unless significant changes are made within the MTA: "Until this occurs, the federal government shouldn’t bail out the MTA from Kathy Hochul’s incompetence."

Representing New York's 17th Congressional District, Lawler is noted as one of Congress's most bipartisan members. His district is located just north of New York City and includes parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.