UPDATE: New York Governor Kathy Hochul has just vetoed a contentious bill that would have mandated two-person crews on every subway train in New York City. This decision, announced on [insert date], has sent shockwaves through the transit community, particularly impacting the Transit Workers Union (TWU), which has tirelessly advocated for enhanced safety measures for decades.
The veto represents a significant setback for those advocating for increased safety on the subway system. Hochul’s office cited concerns over the financial implications of the bill, stating it could cost as much as $10 million annually, potentially jeopardizing service levels and hindering the MTA‘s ability to invest in modern infrastructure. In her statement, Hochul remarked, “The bill would reduce service, and limit the MTA’s ability to benefit from capital investments in modern rolling stock and signals.”
The TWU has long argued that having two-person crews is essential for safety, especially in light of recent subway crime statistics. In September, TWU President John Samuelsen emphasized that two workers per train is not merely a safety measure but aligns with the desires of the “overwhelming majority of New York City working people.”
In a surprising twist, Hochul announced on the same day that overall major crime on the subway system is down 5.2% from last year and has reached its lowest level in 16 years. This statistic adds another layer to the ongoing debate about safety and operational efficiency in the city’s transit system.
Following the veto, Samuelsen did not hold back his criticism, labeling Hochul’s decision as “classist” and hinting at potential repercussions during her re-election campaign next year. The union’s response underscores the emotional stakes involved, as many transit workers feel their safety concerns are being overlooked.
However, not everyone sees the veto as a setback. Budget experts, including Andrew Rein, president of the Citizens Budget Commission, praised the decision. Rein stated, “The governor did the exact right thing vetoing this bill,” noting that one operator per train is the “global norm used by virtually every other transit system around the world,” suggesting that service quality remains high while also saving taxpayer money.
As this story develops, the impact on subway operations and worker safety remains a focal point of discussion among New Yorkers. With the potential for increased political fallout in the coming months, all eyes will be on how this decision affects not only public safety but also Hochul’s standing with transit workers and the broader community.
Stay tuned for further updates as reactions unfold and the implications of this veto ripple through the city’s transit system.
