New Bill Allows for MTA Vehicles in Bus Lanes While Performing Work for the MTA

DECEMBER 22—A bill was signed by Gov. Hochul Friday granting our members “affirmative defense” when tickets are issued to them for stopping, standing or parking in bus lanes while they are conducting official Transit business in a work vehicle.

This common-sense bill accounts for our members who occupy bus lanes to perform work necessary to the job, including Traffic Checkers and maintenence workers from MOW, CED or surface departments.

It allows for MTA employees operating “an authorized employer motor vehicle in a bus lane” while doing their jobs to avoid having to show up in court to fight the tickets.

Instances of stopping, standing or parking in bus lanes to take care of personal business will not be eligible for the affirmative defense, however.

The bill takes effect immediately.