In a significant development, a judge has denied Rockland County’s request for a preliminary injunction in its legal battle against the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) congestion pricing plan. The decision is a setback for the county but not the end of its fight, according to County Executive Ed Day and County Attorney Thomas Humbach.
“We are deeply disappointed by the court’s decision,” the officials stated in a joint statement. “While this ruling represents a setback, it is far from the end of our fight to protect Rockland County residents and commuters from this unjust and discriminatory tolling scheme.”
Rockland County officials argue that the congestion pricing plan unfairly targets their residents. They claim the scheme imposes undue financial burdens on drivers who already contribute to maintaining New York’s transportation infrastructure without equitable access to public transit options. The plan, they assert, disproportionately affects families, small businesses, and individuals who rely on vehicles for their livelihoods.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that Rockland County’s voice is heard and that our residents are treated fairly,” the statement continued. “The decision not to grant this injunction is just one step in a longer process, and we will exhaust every legal option available to challenge this, including the possibility of an appeal.”
Day and Humbach emphasized their determination to seek fairness and equity for the county’s residents, stating that the fight is far from over. They underscored their commitment to opposing any policy that treats Rockland County residents as second-class citizens.
As the legal battle continues, the county’s leadership vowed to stand united against the congestion pricing plan, which they believe undermines the interests of their community.