Federal judge rules against Trump administration’s push to end NYC congestion pricing

A federal judge ruled against the Trump administration’s push to end New York City congestion pricing.U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman for the Southern District of New York, a Trump appointee, on Tuesday allowed the congestion pricing program, which charges cars that enter a section of Manhattan, to continue, The Hill news outlet reported.
The purpose of the program is to alleviate both traffic and air pollution in downtown New York. The Trump administration argues that the program imposes a burden on drivers.
Liman ruled that the Department of Transportation’s moves to terminate the program were “arbitrary and capricious, an abuse of discretion, and not in accordance with law.”
He took issue with letters issued in February and April 2025 that sought to terminate the program without formal deliberation.
Liman’s ruling left some room for the Trump administration to try to eliminate the program through other measures.
“This case has raised issues regarding the February and April letters and the reasons asserted in those letters or now used to defend them. Plaintiffs are not entitled to an injunction that would go beyond those issues,” he wrote.
A DOT spokesperson said in response to the ruling that the department was reviewing its options and considering an appeal.
“We disagree with the court’s ruling. Once again, working-class Americans are being sidelined under Governor Kathy Hochul’s policies, which impose a massive tax on every New Yorker,” the spokesperson said.
“These Green New Scam policies have made federally funded roads inaccessible to commuters without providing a toll-free alternative. We are reviewing all legal options—including an appeal—with the Justice Department. The Trump Administration will not stop fighting to make everyday life more affordable for American families,” the spokesperson added.
After Liman issued a temporary injunction last year, congestion pricing in the city has remained in effect while the litigation played out.
The Biden administration formally approved the program in late 2024.

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