Governor Hochul Vetoes Subway Crew Bill, Impact on Safety Debated

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has vetoed a significant bill that would have mandated two-person crews for each subway train in New York City. This decision has drawn criticism from the Transit Workers Union (TWU), which has long advocated for the requirement, citing safety concerns as a primary reason. The legislation, passed overwhelmingly by state lawmakers in June 2023, aimed to enhance safety protocols across the transit system.

In her veto statement, Hochul emphasized that subway trains can be operated safely with a single driver. She also pointed to the financial implications of the bill, estimating that it would incur costs of up to $10 million annually. This expenditure, she argued, could lead to reduced service and hinder the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) ability to invest in modernizing equipment and signals.

The existing contract between the MTA and the TWU already includes provisions for two-person crews on many subway lines. However, the new legislation would have required an additional worker on trains that currently operate with only one operator and on any future lines.

Supporters of the bill, including TWU President John Samuelsen, have expressed strong disappointment with the veto. In a statement to Gothamist in September, he described the presence of two workers per train as not only a safety necessity but as a demand from the majority of New York City residents. Samuelsen has also labeled the governor’s decision as “classist,” indicating potential repercussions for Hochul in her upcoming re-election campaign.

In the wake of the veto, Hochul presented data indicating a decline in subway crime to its lowest levels in 16 years. Overall major crime on the transit system has dropped by 5.2% compared to last year and by 14.4% since 2019. This reduction may have influenced her decision to prioritize operational efficiency over additional staffing mandates.

The response to Hochul’s veto has been mixed. Budget watchdog groups have praised the governor’s action, with Andrew Rein, president of the Citizens Budget Commission, asserting that one worker per train aligns with global practices. He noted that nearly every other transit system around the world operates under similar staffing models, achieving effective service while also managing operational costs.

As the conversation about subway safety and operational efficiency continues, the implications of this veto will likely extend into the political arena. The TWU’s response and the broader public sentiment surrounding transit safety in New York City remain crucial factors as the next election cycle approaches.