Staten Island Reporter

Senate Republicans have introduced new legislation to address the issues facing the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), citing concerns about excessive spending, declining ridership, and increasing crime on the subway system. The comprehensive legislative package aims to tackle these persistent problems and improve management and accountability within the MTA.

Deputy Leader Andrew Lanza criticized the MTA as one of the most mismanaged bureaucracies in the state, remarking, "Between crime on the subways and congestion pricing, they fail New Yorkers at every turn."

Despite the Governor's record $64.5 billion, five-year capital plan for the MTA, reports of wasteful spending and lack of accountability continue. The decrease in ridership remains a significant issue, accompanied by a rise in crime, including an increase in assaults on police officers and felony assaults.

Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt highlighted the MTA's persistent demand for funding, linking it to its record of reckless spending. "As spending goes up, ridership continues to plummet because New Yorkers are simply afraid to ride the subways due to the increase in violent crime being committed," Ortt stated. He emphasized the need for the MTA to prioritize rider safety and transparency, which the proposed legislation aims to address.

Senator Jack M. Martins commented on the shift to regional fees, arguing, "This attempt to shift to regional fees is another attempt to pick LI’s pocket."

The legislative package includes measures such as providing free MTA services for retired and current police officers, increasing penalties for crimes committed on MTA property, and establishing non-voting seats on the MTA Board for representatives from the MTAPD. These initiatives, along with proposals to repeal congestion pricing and audit the MTA, emphasize the Senate Republicans' focus on restoring fiscal discipline and improving public safety.

Senator Bill Weber expressed concerns over unfair tax rates: "If the MTA cannot provide our residents with equitable service, such as a one-seat ride into NYC, we should not be forced to bankroll their inefficiencies."

Senator Steve Chan emphasized the need for accountability, stating, "It’s time to hold Janno Lieber accountable for the continued waste of taxpayer money."

Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick criticized the proposed tax increases and urged for prioritizing safety and responsible budgeting. "New Yorkers shouldn’t have to choose between their wallets and their safety," she said.

Senator Mario Mattera supported the package, aiming to restore transparency and enhance safety within the MTA. Similarly, Senator Dean Murray called for measures to address mismanagement before considering tax increases.

Emphasizing the global significance of New York's transportation system, Senator Anthony Palumbo advocated for reforms to enhance safety and cost-effectiveness, which would benefit both riders and taxpayers.

Further efforts to ensure fairness for Long Islanders and improve the MTA's financial management were acknowledged by Senators Steve Rhoads, Rob Rolison, and Alexis Weik.

As Democrats seek ways to finance the MTA amidst ongoing challenges, Senate Republicans are stressing the importance of legislative action to enforce accountability and address the core issues within the transit authority.

The proposed legislation aims to provide a safer, more cost-effective, and transparent transit system for New Yorkers, in hopes of finally setting the MTA on the right track to efficient and reliable public transportation.