NYC NOW

Police say they have identified the subway fire victim as 57-year-old Debrina Kawam of Toms River, New Jersey. Investigators say Sebastian Zapeta set her on fire while she was sleeping on a train on Dec. 22. He was indicted last week. Meanwhile, a number of new laws will take effect in New York State as 2025 begins, including fare evasion penalties, a minimum wage hike, and paid time off for prenatal visits. Also, Katz’s Delicatessen has agreed to accessibility upgrades after settling a lawsuit filed by the Justice Department over violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Plus, WNYC’s Brigid Bergin reports on a group of New Yorkers taking daily icy plunges in the Atlantic Ocean. Finally, WNYC highlights Cara DeGracia of Queens, who shares her love for lumpia, a Filipino family favorite.

The Port Authority is raising tolls on its bridges and tunnels Sunday, increasing costs for most drivers crossing between New Jersey and New York by 68 cents. It’s the same day the MTA’s congestion pricing begins, charging drivers $9 to enter Manhattan below 60th Street. Meanwhile, MTA leaders are urging state lawmakers to reconsider their Christmas Eve veto of the transit agency’s next construction plan. Plus, as New Year’s Eve approaches, Jeffery Garcia, executive director of the Office of Nightlife, shares insights on the city’s nightlife and tips for staying safe during celebrations. Finally, a new bill in the City Council could expand short-term rentals in the five boroughs by allowing owners of one- and two-family homes to list units for tourists and temporary tenants, as long as they are present during stays. WNYC’s David Brand reports.

Get up and get informed! Here's all the local news you need to start your day: The MTA is revamping penalties for fare evasion as part of new laws taking effect in January. WNYC’s Jon Campbell reports. Meanwhile, Governor Kathy Hochul is enacting sweeping reforms to the state prison system. WNYC’s Charles Lane has more. Plus, it’s New Year’s Eve, and New York City’s Director of the Office of Nightlife is sharing safety tips for partygoers. WNYC’s Sean Carlson reports.

A federal appeals court has upheld a $5 million judgment against President-elect Donald Trump after finding him liable for sexually abusing advice columnist E. Jean Carroll at Bergdorf Goodman in the 1990s. Meanwhile, police are searching for the person who abandoned a baby girl in a tote bag Sunday on Reverend James A. Polite Avenue in the Bronx. Plus, Mayor Adams and the NYPD are preparing safety measures for New Year’s Eve celebrations. Finally, the NYC Council is investing $3 million over three years to develop a Latino Studies curriculum for public schools. WNYC’s Sean Carlson speaks with Lymaris Caraballo, an associate professor of English education at Teachers College at Columbia University, who’s helping design the curriculum, and Councilmember Rita Joseph, chair of the City Council’s Education Committee, about what this investment means.

Car thefts in New York City fell nearly 10% in 2024, reversing years of steady increases, according to NYPD data. The National Weather Service predicts rain across the region for New Year’s Eve. Meanwhile, New Jersey’s minimum wage is set to rise by 36 cents in 2025, but advocates say many residents still struggle to make ends meet. WNYC’s Michael Hill talks with Stephanie Hoopes of the United Way of Northern New Jersey about the ongoing affordability challenges.

Get up and get informed! Here's all the local news you need to start your day: A federal tax credit supporting affordable housing in New Jersey is set to expire on Tuesday, jeopardizing plans for tens of thousands of homes. Meanwhile, allegations of staff abuse at Marcy Correctional Facility are under review after a handcuffed man was allegedly beaten by staff. The man died a day later. And finally, NBA star Victor Wembanyama played chess with fans in Washington Square Park despite the rain on Saturday.

A man’s 1981 robbery conviction may be vacated due to investigation flaws, igniting discussions about justice. Advocates are also pushing to ban legacy admissions in New York colleges for fairer opportunities. The MTA plans a $100 million upgrade to some of its oldest subway stations, focusing on cleanliness and accessibility. Finally, actor Ken Leung shares his journey from Chinatown to stardom, reflecting on family expectations and his passion for creating content in Cantonese.

New York City has activated a Code Blue as temperatures drop, opening shelters for those in need. There's also a warning about rising RSV cases, emphasizing the importance of vaccinations. Hanukkah is celebrated with delicious latke recipes that highlight the city's culinary diversity. Plus, discover the fascinating story of Pristine Jewelers, a luxury brand beloved by hip-hop stars like Fat Joe and Cardi B, showcasing their journey and the cultural impact of custom jewelry in the music scene.

With some New Yorkers away for the holidays, WNYC’s Janae Pierre and Ryan Kailath discuss things to do as the city clears out. Plus, a Brooklynite shares her family’s coquito recipe.

Michael Hayes, a WNYC reporter focused on affordable housing, discusses the alarming recent subway violence, including two murders that have sparked safety concerns among commuters. He highlights that, despite fears, statistics show subways are generally safer than city streets. The conversation shifts to a controversial affordable housing project in Millburn, New Jersey, where community pushback raises questions about traffic and taxes, revealing the tensions between local desires and state mandates for affordable living.