SENATOR GOLDEN STATEMENT ON GOVERNOR CUOMO’S VETO OF FREE METRO CARD TRANSFER LEGISLATION

Brooklyn – State Senator Martin J. Golden (R-C-I, Brooklyn), a member of the Metropolitan Transit Authority’s Capital Review Board today has issued the following statement criticizing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo for his veto of legislation (S. 3228) that would have provided a free Metro Card transfer for commuters dependent on two buses and a train to meet their travel needs:

Senator Golden stated, “The increase in transportation costs which New Yorkers face challenges the personal budget of many, and this legislation would have provided some much needed relief.  There are many diligent individuals who live a great distance from their work, or students from their schools, who are forced to travel via two buses and a train to reach their destination.  I am disappointed in Governor Cuomo’s veto of this bill which would have prevented folks from having to pay two fares for what is in reality one trip.

I will continue to look for mechanisms to reduce the burdensome cost of travel in which we face each and every day.  I will work with my colleagues to advance and negotiate this effort, and will stand with the transit riders until we can alleviate this unfair cost.”

Governor Andrew Cuomo also vetoed legislation that was sponsored by Senator Golden (S. 5437) that would establish the Metropolitan Transit Authority Riders’ Council for People With Disabilities.

Senator Martin Golden was recently honored with the “Bus Champion Award” by the Riders Alliance.