Lawmakers Push Back Against MTA Fare Hikes in New York

The proposed MTA fare hikes have drawn fierce criticism from state lawmakers who argue the increases come amid a broader affordability crisis affecting everyday New Yorkers. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

MTA fare hikes face strong opposition from state leaders

State Senator Peter Harckham and Assemblyman Matt Slater condemned the MTA’s plan to raise fares, warning it would burden commuters already struggling with rising living costs.

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Harckham, representing parts of Putnam, Dutchess, Westchester, and Rockland, said the MTA was “out of touch” and should reconsider the 4.4% increase, which could push monthly Metro-North passes close to $500.

He emphasized that congestion pricing and payroll taxes were already approved to support the agency, yet the MTA continues seeking more revenue from the public.

Slater, representing several suburban districts, echoed this frustration. He called the MTA’s endless demands for fare and toll hikes “a slap in the face” to suburban communities, blaming long-standing mismanagement within the authority.

Calls for accountability before implementing MTA fare hikes

Both lawmakers urged the MTA to address internal inefficiencies, especially the estimated $800 million annual loss from fare evasion.

Harckham argued that asking for more funding without fixing these gaps was irresponsible, especially after the legislature allocated $68 billion for capital improvements and $30 billion through payroll tax subsidies.

The MTA also projects $1 billion annually from congestion pricing, yet fare hikes remain on the table. Subway and bus fares are expected to rise to $3, while bridge and tunnel tolls may jump by 7.5% starting January 1, 2026.

Slater added that without structural reform, the agency risks eroding public trust. Both officials demanded a more transparent approach to budgeting and investment decisions.

Source: midhudsonnews.com

FAQ

Why are the MTA fare hikes controversial in New York?

Lawmakers argue the MTA fare hikes come amid rising costs and should be delayed until the agency addresses internal financial inefficiencies.

How much will the MTA fare hikes increase monthly tickets?

For Metro-North commuters, monthly passes could reach nearly $500 under the 4.4% fare hike proposal.

Can the MTA find alternatives to fare increases?

Yes, lawmakers suggest the MTA first close the $800 million gap caused by fare evasion and use existing funding sources like payroll taxes and congestion pricing.

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