June 5, 2024

Dear community,

Today we learned that the congestion pricing plan set to begin in NYC later this month has been put on hold.

Local 802 had maintained that the congestion toll would have presented a financial burden for many Local 802 members who cannot transport large instruments on public transportation or who commute into the toll zone from areas with limited public transportation, leaving no option but to instead drive to their jobs. Local 802 asked the MTA for exemptions for musicians in August 2022 and again in January 2024 with no response.

Local 802 had also attempted to alleviate the effects of the congestion pricing by including a reimbursement provision in our promulgated agreements.

We’ll keep you posted if there’s any additional news to report.

In solidarity,
Local 802