Senator Fuschillo Calls for Independent Forensic Audit of the Mta

             Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick) recently voted in favor of legislation which would help make the MTA more accountable and transparent to Long Islanders by requiring it to undergo an independent forensic audit.  

            “Long Islanders pay a lot of money to fund the MTA; we need to make sure that those funds are being used effectively.  After being hit with numerous fare hikes and a burdensome payroll tax, Long Islanders want to know how the MTA is spending their money. Conducting an independent audit would help find new savings and make the MTA more accountable. I am pleased the Senate has passed this legislation and hope it will also be approved by the Assembly,” said Senator Fuschillo, Chairman of the Senate’s Transportation Committee. 

            Under the legislation, the MTA would have to conduct a full independent forensic audit. The results of the audit, which would be performed by a public accounting firm, would have to be reported by January 1, 2013. The audit will help shed more light on the state of the MTA’s finances and help identify potential cost savings which could help reduce expenses.    

The MTA and its spending practices have a direct impact on all Long Islanders. LIRR riders have endured repeated fare hikes and service cuts over the last several years. Even non-commuters are paying for the MTA.  As part of the 2009 MTA bailout, which Senator Fuschillo opposed, Long Islanders were forced to pay higher DMV fees to fund the MTA. Additionally, every Long Island employer must also pay a payroll tax to help fund the MTA. Senator Fuschillo strongly opposed the MTA payroll tax and recently voted in favor of repealing it. 

            The legislation has been sent to the Assembly for consideration.

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