STATEN ISLAND, NY –
Assemblyman Michael Tannousis (R,C-Staten Island/ Brooklyn) is criticizing Assembly Democrats after his legislation to ensure every New York City borough has representation on the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Board was voted against in committee this earlier this week.
In procedural terms in the state Legislature, when a bill is “held” in committee, that amounts to the legislation being blocked to advance for a full vote of the state Assembly.
The legislation, A. 4605, would require that each of New York City’s five boroughs have a representative serving on the voting board of the MTA. The bill was introduced to address the lack of direct representation for Staten Island residents, who currently do not have a seat on the board despite being part of the MTA service region and paying millions to fund it annually.
“Staten Islanders pay into the MTA system just like every other borough, yet we are expected to accept having no voice at the table where critical transportation decisions are made”, said Tannousis. “That is unacceptable. This legislation was about fairness, accountability and ensuring every borough has direct representation on one of the most powerful public authorities in the state”.
Under the proposal, five of the MTA’s voting members would be appointed specifically to represent each of New York City’s five boroughs. The legislation would also maintain balanced representation throughout the broader MTA service territory.
“Whether it’s toll hikes, congestion pricing, transit access or major infrastructure projects, Staten Island residents are directly impacted by decisions made by the MTA every single day”, Tannousis continued. “Albany Democrats had an opportunity to support equal representation for all five boroughs and chose not to move this bill forward. Staten Islanders deserve better.”
Tannousis reaffirmed his commitment to continuing the fight for greater transparency, accountability and representation within the MTA.
“This should not be a partisan issue”, said Tannousis. “Every community deserves a seat at the table”.
