In a statement, MTA spokesperson Ken Lovett said, "We've said all along that unless we received $12 billion in federal emergency assistance we would be forced to enact draconian cuts and layoffs. As we are required to enact a balanced budget and the feds have yet to act on another COVID-19 relief package that would help mass transit, we are moving ahead hoping for the best but preparing for the worst. If the federal aid comes through in that amount, we will adjust our spending plan accordingly."
John Samuelsen, an MTA board member and president of the Transport Workers Union, said in a statement that "the TWU will fight tooth and nail to defend the MTA workforce, there will be serious consequences if there is an attempt to implement this plan."
Walk.