U.S. Judge rules New York’s congestion pricing program can continue

Today, a federal judge ruled that the Trump administration does not have authority to end New York’s congestion pricing program, which has been reducing traffic, improving air quality, and funding transit improvements since January 5^th, 2025.  

“Today’s opinion reinforced what New Yorkers already know: congestion pricing is the law, it’s working, and it’s delivering real climate and public health benefits,” said Andy Darrell, Senior Advisor at Environmental Defense Fund. “By cutting traffic and pollution, speeding up buses and daily commutes, and investing in sustainable transit infrastructure, the program is tackling one of New York’s biggest sources of climate pollution while proving that smart transit policy is smart climate policy. The program remains a powerful tool supporting a healthier, safer, more vibrant and more livable city and it is here to stay.” 

The majority of New Yorkers now support congestion pricing. After one year, commute times by cars and buses are down, over $550 million has been raised to improve and expand public transportation, pedestrian traffic to businesses with the zone is up, and harmful pollution has dropped both in and out of the congestion relief zone. Funding from the program has also been dedicated towards public health projects, such as bus electrification, air quality monitoring and school air filtration, in communities like the Bronx that have historically been burdened by high pollution and high asthma rates.