New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy publicly criticized New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s revived $9 congestion pricing plan on Thursday, November 14th, labeling it a “flawed scheme” that disproportionately burdens New Jersey commuters. The plan, set to begin on January 5th, 2025, has reignited legal battles, with Murphy urging a federal judge to expedite a decision in New Jersey’s ongoing lawsuit.
Randy Mastro, Murphy’s attorney, emphasized the need for judicial intervention, citing environmental review failures. “This scheme remains as flawed today as it has been all along,” Mastro stated, referencing New Jersey’s core argument that the toll was pushed through without proper assessment of its environmental impact. Mastro’s letter to Newark federal Judge Leo Gordon requested swift action, highlighting the urgency following Hochul’s announcement.
Murphy reiterated his opposition, asserting that the plan unfairly penalizes hardworking New Jersey residents. While open to congestion pricing that protects the environment and addresses equity concerns, Murphy argued that the current structure “woefully fails that test.” He also hinted that the timing of Hochul’s decision was a strategic move to preempt challenges from President-elect Donald Trump’s administration.
Additional lawsuits have surfaced against the congestion pricing plan. A coalition called New Yorkers Against Congestion Pricing Tax filed papers opposing the federal government’s motion to dismiss their case. They claim the toll violates constitutional principles and poses environmental risks. Meanwhile, the Trucking Association of New York also plans to amend its lawsuit to reflect the reduced toll rates, arguing the scheme remains detrimental to their industry.
Not all lawsuits seek to block the toll. The Riders Alliance and other pro-transit groups have sued to reinstate the original $15 rate, citing concerns over reduced revenue for MTA projects. Attorney Arthur Schwartz pointed to a potential shortfall in funding critical transit upgrades and accessibility improvements.
As legal battles intensify, Murphy remains a vocal critic of the toll, advocating for a fairer approach that addresses commuters’ and environmentalists’ concerns. The outcomes of these lawsuits will determine whether congestion pricing advances or stalls amid mounting opposition.
