Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
MTA

MTA Wants to Take Payroll Tax Ruling Straight to State’s Top Court

On Wednesday, a state Supreme Court judge ruled the Payroll Mobility Tax unconstitutional, saying that because the "budgetary crisis of the MTA is not a substantial state concern," the law required a home rule message from the affected counties. Now, the MTA says it will appeal directly to New York's top court.

New York's courts allow cases dealing with constitutional issues to bypass intermediate levels of appellate review and instead petition the Court of Appeals directly. Although the top court can decline to hear the case, it is expected to accept the petition for direct review.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

Central Park Changes Have Eased Crossings for Pedestrians, New Data Shows

Pedestrians are waiting less time to cross the bustling six-mile loop after the city shortened crossing distances and replaced "stop" lights with yellow "yield" signals.

January 20, 2026

Memo to Mamdani: Rescind Central Park’s New 15-MPH Bike Speed Limit

The lower speed limit misapplies state law and sets a troubling precedent for cycling in New York City.

January 20, 2026

Tuesday’s Headlines: ‘Upstate Resident’ Edition

The New York Post should be embarrassed. But then, it wouldn't be the Post. Plus other news.

January 20, 2026

MLK Day Headlines: Transit Dignity Edition

Honoring The Dream, plus other news.

January 19, 2026

Mayor Mamdani Won’t Discuss The Ongoing NYPD Criminal Bike Crackdown That Candidate Mamdani Opposed

Hizzoner has gotten the question at least four times in the last 11 days and has yet to explain why he has not ended the NYPD's ticketing blitz against bikers.

January 16, 2026
See all posts