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Thursday, July 17, 2025 ~ Volume 70 ~ Issue Number 39 ~ $1.00
By Raheem Soto Assemblyman Joe DeStefano says Long Islanders are being wrongly billed for New York City congestion fees tied to trips they never took, which forces them into months-long disputes. At the same time, the city’s transit program collects record revenue. DeStefano, who represents parts of Brookhaven, first noticed unexplained fees on his E-ZPass statement this winter. “When I reviewed my bill, I found charges for Manhattan’s congestion zone,” he said. “I’ve never taken my personal vehicle into the city — not once.” The congestion pricing program, which began January 5, imposes a $15 fee on most vehicles entering Manhattan below 60th Street. State leaders say the effort will cut traffic, lower emissions, and support critical transit upgrades. The system relies on cameras and plate readers at numerous locations throughout Manhattan. Continued Continuedon onpage page55
Islip Tables Vote on Cannabis Sales After Heated Debate By Raheem Soto After months of debate, the Islip Town Board voted on Tuesday to table a proposal that would have allowed retail cannabis dispensaries in town, maintaining its 2021 opt-out stance and leaving the future of local marijuana sales uncertain. The move came after more than four hours of impassioned testimony from residents, prosecutors, youth advocates, and industry representatives, who packed Town Hall to weigh in on whether Islip should join nearby towns that have opted in to New York’s cannabis retail program.
Megan O’Donnell, executive assistant district attorney to Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney, opened public comments by urging caution. She stated that her office was not taking an official stance. Still, she laid out concerns about the lack of roadside testing for marijuana impairment and rising cannabisrelated hospital visits. “Unlike alcohol, our state is devoid of any standardized roadside test for driving under the influence of cannabis,” O’Donnell said. “There is no breath test or immediate measure to protect drivers and pedestrians.” Continued on page 3
FULL STORIES ON:
Scouts Receive Refurbished Trailer Pages 10
Roto Cafe Comes Back to Bayshore Page 15
Kennedy Hosts Suffolk County Heroes Breakfast Page 23
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