NEW YORK, NY – New York Senate Judiciary Chairperson Brad Hoylman-Sigal has requested U.S. District Judge Brian Martinotti to recuse himself from overseeing New York’s congestion pricing plan due to potential conflicts of interest, as reported by Politico Pro.
Hoylman-Sigal, representing part of Manhattan, pointed out that Judge Martinotti’s wife, Dana Martinotti, has ties to New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. This relationship could influence the judge’s decision in a case where New Jersey is contesting New York’s tolling plan. The congestion pricing plan, intended to reduce traffic and fund public transportation in New York, faces opposition from New Jersey officials.
Politico first reported the conflict of interest earlier this week.
Dana Martinotti, a councilwoman in North Jersey and a former Murphy nominee to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, is said to be considered for another significant board position by Murphy. This connection raises concerns about Judge Martinotti’s ability to remain impartial.
In his letter to Judge Renée Marie Bumb, the chief judge for the New Jersey District Court, Hoylman-Sigal also highlighted a separate lawsuit from Bergen County officials against the tolls. The senator stressed the need for an unbiased judicial process in light of a Wall Street Journal investigation that found Judge Martinotti did not recuse himself in cases involving companies he had investments in.
Hoylman-Sigal expressed dismay over New Jersey’s challenge to New York’s legislative decision on tolls, emphasizing the environmental benefits of the plan. Governor Murphy’s office declined to comment on the issue.