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12m ago

Hochul Declines State Funding for Mamdani’s Free NYC Bus Plan

The governor cites MTA fare dependence plus fiscal strain, pushing the proposal into negotiations with lawmakers.

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During a news conference at the SOMOS political retreat in Puerto Rico over the weekend, Gov. Kathy Hochul appeared to cast doubt on if she would support New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani making buses in New York City free. “We’re spending a lot of money, so I cannot set forth a plan right now that takes money out of a system that relies on the fares of the buses and the subways,” she said. (JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON/AP FILE)
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Overview

  • Hochul told reporters at the SOMOS conference she cannot advance a plan that pulls dollars from a fare‑dependent MTA system.
  • Her office said she will pursue an affordability agenda with Mamdani but must ensure the MTA retains needed resources.
  • The Independent Budget Office estimates fare‑free buses would cost more than $652 million annually, with some estimates near $700 million.
  • Mamdani proposes a 2% tax on income above $1 million to pay for free buses as well as universal child care and other priorities.
  • MTA leaders remain skeptical of the idea, while legislative chiefs Carl Heastie and Andrea Stewart‑Cousins appear more open to talks on taxes and implementation.