Trump Ends NYC’s Toll Scheme, Hochul Fights To Keep Fees In Place

New Yorkers no longer have to pay the controversial congestion toll to enter Manhattan’s Central Business District after President Donald Trump’s administration blocked the program. Gov. Kathy Hochul, who backed the plan, immediately launched legal action to try and reinstate the charges.

The congestion pricing program, which went into effect in January, forced drivers to pay a $9 toll just to access Manhattan. Many residents and business owners slammed the policy, calling it another tax on working-class Americans. The Trump administration reversed a waiver granted under former President Joe Biden, arguing that tolls should not be placed on federally funded roads.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy informed Hochul of the decision, saying that commuters already pay taxes for roads and should not be charged again to use them. He also noted that small businesses and workers commuting from New Jersey and Connecticut were unfairly burdened by the fees.

Trump celebrated the decision on Truth Social, declaring, “CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD… LONG LIVE THE KING!” Hochul quickly fired back, claiming, “We are a nation of laws, not ruled by a king.” She later confirmed that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority had filed a lawsuit to keep the program in place.

The tolls were meant to raise funds for New York City’s transit system, but critics argued they punished drivers while doing little to fix traffic congestion. Hochul insisted the revenue was crucial, while opponents said the plan was another example of government overreach targeting everyday workers.

The legal battle over congestion pricing is now underway, with New Yorkers temporarily spared from the fees while Hochul fights to bring them back.

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