New York City: Governor Kathy Hochul has sharply criticized the federal government’s decision to slash counterterrorism funding for New York’s mass transit systems, warning that the move jeopardizes public safety in one of the nation’s most high-risk urban environments.

In an official statement, Hochul called the cuts “reckless and unacceptable,” emphasizing that New York remains a top target for terrorism and requires sustained federal support to protect millions of daily commuters. The funding reduction affects the Transit Security Grant Program (TSGP), which supports surveillance, emergency response, and threat mitigation across subways, buses, and commuter rail networks.

🔹 Key Points from the Governor’s Statement:

• Hochul noted that New York accounts for nearly 40% of all U.S. mass transit ridership, making it uniquely vulnerable.
• She stressed that the funding rollback undermines years of investment in counterterrorism infrastructure, including partnerships with the NYPD, MTA, and federal agencies.
• The Governor pledged to work with New York’s congressional delegation to reverse the cuts and restore critical security resources.

Hochul’s remarks come amid heightened concerns over global security threats and domestic preparedness. She reaffirmed New York’s commitment to protecting its residents and maintaining vigilance across all transit hubs.