Senator Lavalle Calls for Repeal of Mta Tax

Senator Kenneth P. LaValle today announced that he has written to the suburban representatives of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) board asking for support in calling for the elimination of the newly instituted payroll tax.

The Senator noted that the Governor’s MTA bailout plan resulted in a massive new payroll tax that hurts businesses across Long Island.  He and other Senate members representing the suburban MTA service area vigorously opposed the unwise tax increase.   “Not only is it an unfair tax, but, historically, the suburban service areas have not received a fair share of the MTA budget,” said Senator LaValle.  “Businesses are struggling to stay alive through one of the worst economic downturns in our nation’s history.  Any tax increase will only exacerbate an already difficult situation.”

Senator LaValle also voiced his concern for our hospitals and not-for-profits.  These groups are already facing deep cuts.  The additional burden of this onerous tax threatens their ability to provide quality service in an efficient and cost effective manner.

“Simply put, the MTA’s fiscal problems cannot be shouldered by suburban businesses that are already shortchanged by unfair MTA budget allocations, while at the same time experiencing the challenges of a bad economy,” said Senator LaValle.  “I am urging the MTA board members who represent the suburban service areas to join me in calling for the elimination of this excessive tax.”