Last hurrah for Golden as Cuomo signs MTA lockbox bill
Former Republican state Sen. Marty Golden got a gift on his way out the door from an unexpected source.
During Golden’s last days as a lawmaker, Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed into law a bill the Bay Ridge Republican sponsored to tighten the so-called “lockbox” around MTA funds to prevent state officials from siphoning funds from the MTA and spending the money on pet projects that have nothing to do with transportation.
The new law requires that state funding dedicated to the MTA only be used for the intended purpose. Monies meant for the MTA could still be diverted, but only in emergencies — and a diversion impact statement would have to be filed.