**New York’s Congestion Pricing Program Faces Legal Battle with Trump Administration**
New York is taking decisive action to defend its congestion pricing initiative against the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle it. The city is preparing to request an immediate court order to safeguard the traffic tolling plan, which has been operational for four months. Although the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has not yet filed for a freeze, it indicated in a letter that negotiations with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) have reached a standstill.
The MTA plans to ask the presiding judge for a preliminary injunction to prevent the DOT from withholding federal approvals or funding while the tolling system remains in effect. This development intensifies the ongoing conflict between New York state and U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, who has labeled the program a “business killer.” In contrast, state officials have presented data demonstrating its effectiveness.
The legal action follows Duffy’s directive to Governor Kathy Hochul and the MTA to halt the toll by May 21. U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman has given the MTA until Monday to pursue the injunction. A spokesperson for the DOT has not yet commented on the situation.
The $9 toll imposed on most drivers entering some of Manhattan’s busiest streets has sparked a confrontation between the Republican president and the Democratic governor. The MTA initiated legal proceedings against the Trump administration after Duffy announced a reversal of federal approval for the program, which had been authorized under former President Biden, despite the tolling commencing on January 5.
Congestion pricing is projected to generate $15 billion for the MTA, funding essential upgrades to train signals, enhancing subway station accessibility, and extending the Second Avenue subway to Harlem. Additionally, the program aims to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce pollution associated with gridlock. Recent data indicates that approximately 7.5 million fewer vehicles entered the tolled area this year, with significant monthly decreases in traffic and revenue that support a planned bond issue.
The MTA relies on state and federal funding for infrastructure improvements to enhance service and attract more riders, with its 2025-2029 capital plan depending on an anticipated $14 billion in federal funds. A proposed case schedule submitted by both parties suggests that the tolls would likely remain in effect until October unless the U.S. secures a court order to halt their collection. However, Duffy’s recent communication indicated that he would initiate “compliance measures,” including blocking federal authorizations for Manhattan projects.
The ongoing dispute over congestion pricing has also revealed signs of discord within the Justice Department, highlighted by a letter from federal prosecutors in Manhattan criticizing the DOT’s legal strategy and advocating for a change in approach.
**FAQ**
**What is New York’s congestion pricing program?**
New York’s congestion pricing program imposes a toll on drivers entering certain busy areas of Manhattan, aiming to reduce traffic congestion and generate funds for public transportation improvements.
