Bill > S03263

This bill addresses two key issues related to transportation and taxation in New York State. First, it modifies the definition of the Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District (MCTD) to exclude six towns in Suffolk County (Brookhaven, East Hampton, Riverhead, Shelter Island, Southampton, and Southold) from the metropolitan commuter transportation mobility tax. The bill notes that these towns receive minimal mass transit services from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) but contribute substantially to MTA funding, estimating over $60 million annually in excess of received services. As a result, the bill requires that any revenues previously collected from these towns be reimbursed by March 31, 2027. Secondly, the bill mandates that the MTA renegotiate its joint service operating agreement with Connecticut by the same date, with two potential courses of action: (a) restructuring the agreement to equalize fare increases and adjust operating deficit subsidies based on Connecticut residents' usage of Metro-North and New York City transit services, including retroactive payments; or (b) reducing Metro-North New Haven line services and expenses to achieve equivalent financial savings. The bill aims to address perceived tax inequities and improve the financial arrangements for regional transit services.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3263