The Trump administration’s efforts to end congestion pricing in New York City were illegal, a federal judge ruled Tuesday.

In his decision, Judge Lewis Liman formally allowed the program, which charges cars that enter a section of Manhattan, to continue.

The program seeks to alleviate both traffic and air pollution in downtown New York. Opponents, including the Trump administration, argue that it imposes a burden on drivers, including commuters.

The Trump appointee determined that the Department of Transportation’s moves to terminate the program were “arbitrary and capricious, an abuse of discretion, and not in accordance with law.”

The New York judge took issue with letters issued in February and April 2025 that sought to terminate the program without formal deliberation

However, his ruling did leave some room for the Trump administration to try to eliminate the program through other measures.

“This case has raised issues regarding the February and April letters and the reasons asserted in those letters or now used to defend them. Plaintiffs are not entitled to an injunction that would go beyond those issues,” the judge wrote.

In response to the ruling, a spokesperson for the Department of Transportation said it was reviewing its options and considering an appeal.

“We disagree with the court’s ruling. Once again, working-class Americans are being sidelined under Governor Kathy Hochul’s policies, which impose a massive tax on every New Yorker,” the spokesperson said.

“These Green New Scam policies have made federally funded roads inaccessible to commuters without providing a toll-free alternative. We are reviewing all legal options—including an appeal—with the Justice Department. The Trump Administration will not stop fighting to make everyday life more affordable for American families,” they added.

New York City congestion pricing has remained in effect while the litigation played out after Liman issued a temporary injunction last year.

The New York program was formally approved by the Biden administration in late 2024. President Trump, originally a New Yorker, has been a vocal critic of congestion pricing in the city.

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