U.S. Threatens MTA Funding Over Subway Crime Concerns

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has issued a warning to New York's Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), threatening to withhold federal funding unless the agency addresses rising crime and safety concerns within the subway system. In a letter, Duffy requested detailed plans from the MTA to combat issues such as assaults, fare evasion, and overall public safety, emphasizing that commuters deserve a secure environment. Despite the federal pressure, MTA officials, including CEO Janno Lieber, reaffirmed their commitment to the congestion pricing program, which aims to reduce traffic in Manhattan. The MTA has reported a significant drop in crime rates since the pandemic, with a 40% decrease compared to 2020. Governor Kathy Hochul has also increased transit security, responding to the federal scrutiny. The deadline for the MTA to submit its safety plans is March 31, as tensions rise between the agency and the Trump administration regarding funding and safety measures.