Watchdog Urges Hochul to End MTA Driver Bus Lane Exemptions

New York State Governor Kathy Hochul faces pressure to veto a controversial bill allowing Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) employees to park in bus lanes without consequence. Albany’s leading government watchdog group, Reinvent Albany, has criticized the bill, stating it undermines effective governance and public transport policies.

Details of the Bill

The legislation, known as S6815/A8292, permits MTA employees operating agency vehicles to claim an “affirmative defense” against parking violations in bus lanes. According to the watchdog group, this creates an environment where employees might exploit the law to evade accountability.

• Sponsorship: State Senator Leroy Comrie (D-Queens) and Assembly Member Brian Cunningham (D-Brooklyn).
• Legislative Progress: The bill rapidly passed through both chambers of the state Legislature in June.
• Governor’s Desk: It reached Hochul’s office for review on Monday.

Concerns Raised

Reinvent Albany argued that the bill sets a dangerous precedent, suggesting MTA workers may misuse agency vehicles without fear of repercussions. They have observed similar patterns of abuse related to congestion pricing and parking placards in the past.

The organization emphasizes that while the intent might appear reasonable—allowing employees to perform their duties—the outcome could lead to more frequent violations. As it stands, the provided defense is applicable only if employees can clarify their reason for parking in a bus lane.

Legislators’ Defense

Assembly Member Cunningham defended the bill, stating it aims to alleviate the financial burden on workers who may incur fines while fulfilling their job responsibilities. He pointed out existing laws permit MTA to pass these fines to employees, adding to the unfairness of the situation.

Cunningham is open to collaborative legislative solutions to address the issues without the need for such exemptions, hoping to prevent MTA workers from being penalized while performing maintenance or operational tasks.

Additional Legislation

This bill is not the only measure under scrutiny. Reinvent Albany is also urging for Governor Hochul to reject a proposal offering leniency to Co-op City drivers ticketed for illegal parking at bus stops.

A spokesperson for Governor Hochul mentioned that the governor would conduct a thorough review of all proposed legislation, leaving many awaiting her decision. The outcome could significantly influence MTA operations and public perceptions of fair enforcement in New York City’s bus lanes.