New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli released the following statement on the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's 2026 Adopted Budget:

"The Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s Adopted Budget for 2026 reflects several actions that have become necessary in order to prepare for potential federal funding cuts.

“On the spending side, the MTA proactively targeted additional savings from new operating efficiencies, including $75 million in 2026, which will help the Authority balance its budget next year. It’s important that the MTA continues the work of identifying the sources of these potential savings, which it expects to total $250 million by 2029.

“The Authority also pushed back its anticipated receipt of $600 million in federal funds for COVID-19 expenses split between 2025 and 2026 to 2026, 2027 and 2028. While these funds are likely still a budget risk, given a lack of clarity from Washington, the MTA is less reliant on these funds to balance its budget in 2026. The MTA should continue to work with its partners at the State and in the New York Congressional delegation to receive these funds for services already rendered.

“Other positive fiscal developments include the potential for casino tax revenues to be available as early as next year, but for which the MTA has wisely not yet budgeted for, and a continued return of transit ridership that puts the Authority on target to meet its 2026 projection. The Authority must continue recent efforts to proactively manage its budget and ensure frequent, safe and reliable service to bring straphangers back to the system.”