Nassau Politicans Stand Up Against Hochul's Congestion Pricing Plan

HEMPSTEAD, NY — With Governor Hochul's congestion pricing expected to start in early January, several Nassau County politicans gathered on Tuesday in opposition.

The plan calls for a $9 surcharge on cars entering Manhattan below 60th Street.

"Once again, we have Governor Hochul proposing an out-of-touch tax on hardworking Long Islanders," Town of Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin. “This is nothing short of an egregious cash grab, and I will vehemently fight against this unjust tax by taking this matter to the highest level of government possible."

The MTA board approved the proposal on Monday that would be in effect through 2027 for $9 per car.

"For countless Long Islanders who live outside of Manhattan, driving into the city is
essential for jobs, medical appointments, and educational opportunities," Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino said. "Adding a $9 toll would only increase the financial strain on working families already dealing with rising costs of living, high taxes, and inflation."

However, Gordon Tepper, a spokesperson for the governor said: "The critics of our more affordable plan have still failed to offer any of their own meaningful solutions for reducing gridlock, improving emergency vehicle response times and strengthening the transit system that is so vital to New York’s economic future."

Clavin said Long Islanders who commute into the city can't afford another tax.

"I urge President-elect Donald J. Trump to do the right thing for New Yorkers and permanently abolish congestion pricing," he said.

The Federal Highway Administration has to sign off before congestion pricing can become a reality.