Staten Island Reporter

Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis expressed her disappointment after a federal judge in New Jersey declined to issue an injunction against New York City's Congestion Pricing plan. The scheme is set to commence soon, despite opposition from various parties.

"Unfortunately, yesterday Federal Judge Leon Gordon did not grant a temporary injunction to halt the congestion cash grab that starts tomorrow," Malliotakis stated. She emphasized her commitment to opposing what she described as an "unfair tax on commuters." Malliotakis intends to continue legal challenges in both New York and New Jersey courts and believes state legislative action is necessary.

Malliotakis revealed discussions with incoming President Trump, noting his opposition to congestion pricing. She said, "Last week, I spoke with incoming President Trump who is just as opposed to congestion pricing as we are and he understands the negative impact this new tax will have on residents and our economy."

The congresswoman criticized Governor Hochul's approach, suggesting public transportation safety should be prioritized over implementing the congestion pricing scheme. "If Governor Hochul actually wants commuters to ride our subways, she should focus on making public transportation safe instead of taxing commuters into submission with this unfair congestion pricing scheme," she added.

Malliotakis is involved in ongoing lawsuits against the plan alongside UFT and Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella. A related injunction request was denied by a federal judge on December 23, 2024.