Bill > S04335

This bill amends the public authorities law to establish new requirements for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) when proposing substantial changes to surface or rapid transit routes. Specifically, the bill defines a "substantial change in service" as either a 25% or more frequency change during any two consecutive hours at a transit station or route segment, or the complete or partial closing of a passenger station. Starting September 1, 2026, any such service changes must receive approval from both the NYC Transit Authority's Committee on Operations and the MTA's board, and must be preceded by public hearings in the affected counties. The bill mandates comprehensive public notice requirements, including detailed information about the proposed changes, rider impact data, financial projections, and the methodology used to collect data. Public notices must be posted at affected stations and routes, and hearings must provide at least 30 minutes of public speaking time, with individual speakers allowed at least 5 minutes (or 3 minutes if many speakers are registered). The bill also requires the MTA to conduct passenger counts six months after implementing any service change and report those findings to the board and public. Exceptions are made for short-term changes (less than 180 days) and emergency situations that could compromise passenger safety.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4335