NYC Congestion Pricing Exempts UN Diplomats, Including Those from Iran and Russia, Burdening Taxpayers “`

New York City recently implemented congestion pricing, charging drivers $9 to $21.60 daily to drive below 60th Street in Manhattan.

On January 6th, the State Department issued an exemption for employees of foreign missions and international organizations, including the United Nations, from these charges.

New York City Councilwoman Vickie Paladino criticized this exemption, questioning why ordinary drivers face significant annual costs while diplomats from countries like Iran receive immunity.

Paladino stated that this preferential treatment for U.N. personnel was unsurprising, citing decades of the U.N.’s use of the city and the State Department’s granting of exemptions from various laws and fines.

She highlighted instances of diplomats’ impunity regarding speeding, parking, and other fines, noting significant unpaid fines accumulated by some diplomatic missions.

A 2022 report revealed over $100,000 in unpaid parking fines by Russian diplomats since 2003. While the State Department cited a policy regarding suspension of diplomatic plate registration for multiple unpaid violations, it remained unclear whether Russia faced any consequences.

Congestion pricing fees, which will increase in 2031, aim to fund transportation upgrades and traffic reduction. Paladino expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of these fees given the city’s subway system and other infrastructure issues.

The congestion pricing has already impacted some workers, with a union urging EMTs and paramedics to transfer from stations within the zone due to the added cost.

Requests for comment from the State Department, Mayor Eric Adams’ office, and Governor Kathy Hochul’s office remained unanswered. These requests sought clarification on the exemption, the number of exempted vehicles, and the fairness of the financial burden on residents while U.N. personnel are exempt.

Paladino described the congestion pricing as potentially detrimental to the city’s economy, arguing that it disproportionately affects the middle and lower-middle classes.

The United Nations has 193 member states, many with missions in and around New York City.