New York Note – City Legislation, Congestion Pricing, Right to Shelter

October 9, 2023

NYC Council Passes and Introduces Legislation

Last Thursday, the NYC Council convened a Stated meeting, where they passed and introduced multiple pieces of legislation. The Council passed legislation requiring an annual forest plan, helping the City expand its tree canopy to 30% coverage. Legislation was also introduced that would require any capital project receiving over $1M from the City to pay prevailing wage to all workers on the project. The Council also formally introduced the Administration’s City of Yes for Carbon Neutrality proposal, which has been in public review since April 2023. You can find all of the bills that were passed and introduced here.

Traffic Mobility Review Board Holds Review Meeting

Last Monday, the Traffic Mobility Review Board held its third meeting to discuss the fees for congestion pricing. TMRB’s priorities in setting tolls are keeping a low toll, minimizing traffic diversions, prioritizing equity, and setting a “simple” toll. TMRB members spoke about nighttime discounts, crossing credits for tunnels, and tolls for for-hire vehicles and taxis. You can find a full recap of the meeting here. TMRB is expected to finalize its recommendations to the MTA later this month.

Mayor Adams Submits to Suspend Right to Shelter Law

The Adams administration is seeking to suspend the City’s obligation to provide shelter, due to the ongoing asylum seeker crisis. Mayor Adams argued that the city should be able to temporarily lift the mandate, which was established in 1981, during an emergency. Additionally, they requested that the rules be suspended when the Governor or Mayor declares a state of emergency or there is an increase of people seeking shelters. Advocates have expressed concerns that the change will negatively affect homeless New Yorkers.

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