Senators from Long Island have united to oppose proposed increases in the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) payroll tax. Senator Mario R. Mattera, representing the 2nd Senate District, joined his colleagues in expressing dissatisfaction with including this measure in the overdue state budget. The proposed tax increase would affect New York City businesses with a payroll of at least $10 million annually, raising their rate from 0.6% to 0.895%. Businesses on Long Island and in several counties would see an increase from 0.34% to 0.635%.
Senator Mattera criticized Albany’s approach, stating that it treats New Yorkers as “the ATM machine for the MTA and New York State.” He emphasized that “many of the MTA’s problems are self-inflicted,” and urged for solutions that do not involve further financial burdens on taxpayers or job cuts.
Senator Dean Murray echoed these sentiments, warning that such measures drive residents out of New York: “The problem is that this story ends with New Yorkers leaving the state in droves.”
Senator Jack M. Martins highlighted the need for accountability within the MTA: “The last thing we need is another job-killing payroll tax to fund the MTA.”
Criticism was also directed at Governor Kathy Hochul and other state leaders by Senator Bill Weber who called for a comprehensive audit of the MTA before considering new taxes: “I categorically oppose this frivolous cash grab.”
Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick expressed concern over additional financial pressures on Long Islanders: “This tax hike is unjustified, unsustainable, and driving people out of New York.”
Concerns about wasteful spending were detailed through examples such as high costs associated with subway projects and security installations. Senator Steve Chan questioned why fare evasion remains unaddressed while more funds are sought.
Several senators called for greater scrutiny of existing expenditures before introducing new taxes. Senator Anthony Palumbo noted that an increased payroll tax would exacerbate affordability issues in New York.
Senator Steve Rhoads criticized recent proposals as detrimental to business retention: “Hochul’s latest proposed tax hike is just more fuel on the fire driving businesses and families out of New York.”
The collective stance among these senators reflects a broader concern about fiscal management and its impact on residents’ livelihoods across affected regions.
