East Hudson Valley News

Assemblyman Matt Slater and his colleagues from the Assembly Minority gathered at the New York state Capitol to advocate for a comprehensive audit of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). The call comes in response to reports highlighting significant issues within the MTA, including $800 million in uncollected tolls due to fare evasion, $5 billion in unpaid tolls, falsified inspection reports, and employee overtime abuse.

The proposed legislation (A.6088) by the Assembly Republican Conference aims to mandate that the MTA engage an independent accounting firm for a full forensic audit. This audit would identify inefficiencies and suggest potential reforms within the agency.

Assemblyman Slater expressed concerns about the MTA's financial management: “Despite the MTA’s budget being bigger than 14 other states in the nation, it continue to be a bottomless pit; Chairman Janno Lieber admitted to the Transportation Committee that no matter how much money the state gives them, the MTA will always be back for more.”

He further emphasized, “The MTA’s mismanagement is no secret, it’s an embarrassing reputation for an agency that millions of New Yorkers rely on every day. The waste, fraud and shady dealings within the MTA must stop now. Even our state comptroller has sounded the alarm—how much more evidence do we need before we take action? New Yorkers are tired of leaders who talk about change but do nothing. The MTA is no exception. It’s time to pass this bill, clean up the MTA, protect hardworking taxpayers and give riders the reliable, accountable system they deserve.”

Assemblyman Karl Brabenec also commented on the situation: “The MTA’s continued mismanagement and failure to address fraud is taking a toll on New Yorkers. For years, billions have been lost due to unpaid fares and toll evasion, with little to no accountability from the agency. It’s clear that the MTA cannot effectively oversee itself. A comprehensive forensic audit is essential to bringing accountability and restoring the efficiency and transparency that taxpayers deserve. New Yorkers deserve better than the ongoing negligence that has plagued this system.”