What it is
New York's congestion pricing program charges most vehicles a toll to enter Manhattan below 60th Street — the first program of its kind in the US, modeled on similar systems in London and Stockholm. The stated goals are reducing traffic and funding transit improvements.
Does it affect visitors?
Only if you're driving into that zone — most visitors relying on the subway, taxis, or rideshare within Manhattan won't pay the toll directly, though rideshare and taxi trips into or within the zone typically build a smaller per-trip surcharge into the fare rather than the full toll.
What it means practically
If you're renting a car for a trip that includes Manhattan sightseeing, factor in the toll for entering the zone, and know that it's charged by license plate recognition rather than a manual tollbooth — no need to stop or carry cash for it.