Somerset Times

Congressman Tom Kean Jr. has expressed strong opposition to New York Governor Kathy Hochul's decision to reintroduce congestion pricing, a program initially introduced in 2019 but postponed earlier this year. In a statement, Kean criticized the initiative, calling it "deeply flawed and inequitable" and asserting that it unfairly targets residents of New Jersey.

Kean stated, "I strongly condemn Governor Hochul’s decision to reintroduce this initiative and will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to put an end to it. This program should be permanently canceled." He described the program as a "money grab" that disproportionately affects New Jersey commuters traveling to New York City for work or essential purposes.

Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves also weighed in on the issue, noting President-elect Trump's opposition to the congestion pricing scheme. Graves remarked, "The rush to institute it before he can take office is a blatantly political move." He criticized the timing of its reintroduction shortly after elections, suggesting it contradicts recent electoral messages demanding relief from high costs.

In addition to his public statements, Congressman Kean has been actively involved in opposing congestion pricing through legislative means. He is a cosponsor of H.Res.609, which expresses opposition to New York City's Central Business District Tolling Program. Furthermore, Kean serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and is part of the Anti-Congestion Tax Caucus.

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