Sliwa proposes $500 congestion toll rebates, no city tax on tips, as part of 'Money In Your Pocket' plan
GOP candidate would rebate toll costs, tax relief on tips, and cut department spending to fund affordability in NYC
New York City — Republican Curtis Sliwa rolled out his 'Money In Your Pocket' blueprint Monday, proposing up to $500 a year in rebates for tolls paid by drivers who enter Manhattan’s congestion pricing zone below 60th Street. The plan also calls for eliminating city taxes on tips and offering property tax rebates of up to $500 for primary residences and owner-occupied co-ops and condos. Sliwa said the package would be paid for by trimming $8 billion to $10 billion from the city budget, with a focus on reducing 'bureaucratic fat' at the Department of Education.
Under the city mobility rebate, one person per household would receive 10 percent back on annual congestion tolls, up to a maximum of $500, for entering Manhattan below 60th Street. Sliwa said the program would be limited to New Yorkers earning $150,000 a year or less, aiming to help working families rather than wealthier commuters.
'No City Tax on Tips' is another pillar of the plan. It would mirror a provision in President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, signed into law in July, that eliminates federal income taxes on tips for workers—from waiters to golf caddies.
Officials say the rebates tied to primary residences and owner-occupied co-ops and condos would be paid for through the city budget, and would also require state approval.
Sliwa said the rebates could be funded in part by auditing city agencies and cutting waste in the first year, with the goal of securing ongoing funding through state lawmakers in future budgets.
Like the toll rebates, the property tax rebates would require state approval. The plan would allow rebates on primary residences and owner-occupied co-ops and condos, up to $500 per eligible property.
Sliwa argues the program would free up disposable income and ease affordability pressures, citing the city’s education funding. He noted the Department of Education has a $41 billion budget and is projected to spend about $42,000 per pupil this year, arguing that savings could be found in top-level administration.
Sliwa is polling a distant third in the mayoral race behind Zohran Mamdani and former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, but he sits slightly ahead of incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, who is running as an independent after leaving the Democratic ticket.
Supporters say the plan stands in contrast to Mamdani’s platform, which they describe as tax-heavy and likely to raise costs for residents. Sliwa contends Mamdani’s approach would drive away workers and families while his own plan aims to beef up affordability and mobility.
