Hocal Raises Feasibility Concerns Over Mamdani’s proposed Free Bus Policy for NYC
New York Governor Cathy Hocal has expressed skepticism regarding teh financial viability of New york City Mayor-elect Zoran Mamdani’s aspiring plan to eliminate bus fares throughout the city.The proposal, a key promise during Mamdani’s campaign, faces notable hurdles requiring approval from state lawmakers adn the governor, who oversees the New York State metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA).
Speaking to reporters in San Juan, Puerto Rico on November 8, Governor hocal acknowledged the need to address affordability in public transportation but questioned the practicality of removing fare revenue entirely. “New York’s public transportation relies on bus and subway fares,” she stated.
On november 8, she praised Mamdani during a union breakfast, stating, “I’m really excited. The new mayor is bringing excitement to New York City. I will work wiht him to make living in New York City more affordable, and I will continue to do so with great partners across the state.” However, she firmly reiterated her opposition to raising taxes on wealthy New Yorkers to fund these initiatives, emphasizing that the mayor lacks the authority to impose new taxes. “I’m all about putting money back in people’s pockets and cutting taxes for the middle class,” Hocal told ABC, “and as I’ve been doing, I’m looking for ways to support child care.”
Mamdani, who identifies as a democratic socialist, campaigned on a platform centered around affordability, including free universal childcare, free buses, and a rent freeze for rent-stabilized apartments. While he may face challenges securing state support for the childcare and free bus initiatives, a rent freeze appears more attainable through local action.
According to a 2023 estimate from the New York City Self-reliant Budget Office, eliminating bus fares citywide would cost at least $652 million annually. Targeted approaches, such as exempting fares for those over 65, would cost $40 million per year, while providing free buses solely to low-income New Yorkers would amount to $28 million annually.
Hocal acknowledged previous conversations with Mamdani, stating in September that they had discussed the “scope of possibilities and shared ambitions.” However, she added, “But the question is whether it’s feasible. we agree on some of these issues,but I’ve made my thoughts clear where we have strong disagreements on issues that have nothing to do with actually governing New York City.” She also revealed that New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch recommended Mamdani retain her position, citing her success in reducing crime.
At a press conference on November 10, Mamdani unveiled his mayoral transition committee and expressed continued interest in retaining Tisch as police chief. When questioned about his commitment to securing free buses, he responded, “I am confident that we will see a politics of cooperation that we have not seen in New York State for some time.” He further asserted, “There will be no political confrontation. What we learned from our conversation is that the cost of living issue is an issue that everyone considers crucial, regardless of political party, and there is a consensus that it must be resolved.”
Mamdani’s team has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the governor’s remarks. New York City Metropolitan Transit Authority Chairman Jano Lieber has also voiced concerns, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing limited-income riders. “It’s a waste to provide free buses through taxpayer money to people who can afford to live in wealthy neighborhoods like the Upper West Side,” Lieber stated in a recent interview with NY1.
To finance the free bus initiative,Mamdani has proposed raising the city’s top corporate tax rate from 7.25% to 11.5%, potentially generating an additional $5 billion annually. He also suggested a 2% tax increase for new Yorkers earning over $1 million per year,which he estimates would yield an additional $4 billion. Though, these proposals require the approval of state lawmakers and the governor’s signature to become law. .
The future of Mamdani’s ambitious plan hinges on navigating these complex political and financial challenges, requiring a delicate balance of cooperation and negotiation between the incoming mayor and the state’s leadership.
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