Without action by Congress before the end of the year, New York City-area workers who use public transit will see the cap on their tax-free commuting benefit plunge to $130 per month, while workers who drive cars and pay for parking will see an increase to $250 per month. This is unfair—and it would represent a step backward for our nation’s transportation policy.

We need policies that encourage—not discourage—the use of public transportation across the five boroughs, as well as in surrounding parts of New York State, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Public transit reduces traffic and cuts air pollution. That’s critical for New York, which is ranked among the 10 worst cities in the nation for traffic congestion. Expanding the use of public transit must be a national priority, and the commuter tax benefit is key in supporting that goal.

In addition to helping individuals more easily bear the costs of commuting to work, the commuter tax benefit enables New York City employers to reduce their payroll taxes, freeing up money to hire more workers, expand benefits, and invest in business growth. And all of us benefit from fewer cars on the road, less congestion, and reduced pollution. Tell Congress to pass legislation that will create permanent parity between commuters who drive and pay for parking and those who use public transportation.