Bill > S00533

This bill addresses two main components: the repeal of congestion pricing in New York City (Part A) and the requirement for an independent forensic audit of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) (Part B). In Part A, the bill completely eliminates Article 44-C of the vehicle and traffic law, effectively canceling the previously planned congestion pricing program for New York City's central business district. This means the proposed toll for vehicles entering Manhattan's core will not be implemented. In Part B, the bill mandates that the MTA must contract with a certified public accounting firm within 60 days to conduct a comprehensive, independent forensic audit. The audit must be performed according to government auditing standards and be separate from existing annual audits. The bill includes strict requirements for the accounting firm, such as prohibiting firms that have previously audited the MTA from conducting this forensic audit, ensuring independence and preventing potential conflicts of interest. The audit findings must be reported to various state officials, including the Governor, State Comptroller, and legislative leaders, by January 1, 2028. The bill will take effect immediately but is set to expire on January 2, 2028, providing a time-limited mandate for the MTA audit.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S533