News Summary
A federal judge has issued a temporary restraining order against the Trump administration’s efforts to halt New York City’s congestion pricing program. The ruling supports the MTA’s funding amidst threats from federal officials to withdraw financial support. The judge highlighted the likelihood of the MTA’s success in court, emphasizing potential irreparable harm to New York if funding is pulled. With public support for the initiative strong, the MTA seeks to maintain the program aimed at reducing congestion and raising funds for public transit improvements.
New York – A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s attempt to stop New York City’s congestion pricing program. On May 27, 2025, U.S. District Court Judge Lewis Liman issued a temporary restraining order that halts U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy from withholding critical federal funding that supports the program, which charges a fee for motorists entering Manhattan’s congested areas.
The ruling delivers a significant legal victory for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), which sought the injunction following threats from federal officials to withdraw funding as of May 28. Judge Liman noted that the MTA is likely to succeed in its case, declaring that New York would face “irreparable harm” if the federal funding was pulled.
The restraining order will remain effective until June 9, providing some breathing room for the MTA amidst ongoing legal challenges. Danny Pearlstein, a representative from the Riders Alliance, has expressed concerns regarding potential future actions from the Trump administration and the possibility of the case being escalated to another court. The Department of Justice, represented by attorney Charles Roberts, argued that the congestion pricing initiative is illegal as it had not passed through Congress and referenced the ongoing reliance on approvals from the Biden administration, despite Trump’s opposition.
Governor Kathy Hochul praised the ruling, emphasizing its significance in protecting state decisions concerning transportation. The judge’s ruling also indicates a focus on state sovereignty in relation to city transport policies. The U.S. Department of Transportation has confirmed its compliance with the restraining order, characterizing this ruling as a procedural pause rather than an assessment of the case’s merits.
Details of the Congestion Pricing Program
New York’s congestion pricing program, which was implemented to reduce traffic congestion and improve public transportation funding, charges a $9 toll for cars entering Manhattan south of 60th Street during daytime hours. Following its initiation, the MTA has reported a 12% reduction in vehicle entries to the congestion zone, suggesting early success in mitigating traffic issues.
Public support for the congestion pricing initiative appears strong, with recent polling indicating that 60% of residents within the congestion zone are in favor of the program. A rally held outside the courthouse prior to the hearing demonstrated public backing for the initiative and a collective endorsement of the MTA’s efforts to maintain the program amidst federal challenges.
Past Legal and Political Context
The Trump administration had issued multiple deadlines for New York to halt the congestion pricing program, with the latest ultimatum set for May 21. Representative Jerry Nadler criticized any attempt to revoke federal approval for such an initiative, deeming it unprecedented and lacking legal standing.
The legal and political landscape around the congestion pricing initiative is evolving, with the federal government’s legal stance shifting following recent staffing changes within its legal team. The MTA’s attorney reiterated that there had been an agreement with federal officials regarding congestion pricing prior to the changes in administration.
Future Developments
The MTA’s board is scheduled to meet soon to discuss updates on sustaining and supporting the congestion pricing initiative. Governor Hochul’s administration continues to advocate for the program, which aims not only to alleviate traffic congestion but also to secure additional funding for vital transit improvements throughout the city.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- The New York Times
- Gothamist
- Al Jazeera
- Encyclopedia Britannica: New York City congestion pricing
- Google News: NYC congestion pricing
