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NEW YORK — New York’s first-in-the-nation plan to levy a hefty toll on drivers entering much of traffic-choked Manhattan is the focus of a legal battle set to play out in federal court May 17.

New York City’s congestion pricing plan will now include funds to help alleviate potential pollution issues the new tolling program may spark in New Jersey.

Drivers of cars and trucks in New York City inched closer to paying a new fee to enter Manhattan’s central business district after approval of the nation’s first congestion-pricing plan.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy is again pushing back on New York’s plan to charge motorists driving into Manhattan’s central business district, saying it violates the U.S. Constitution.

Most drivers would pay $15 to enter Manhattan’s business district under a plan released by New York officials Nov. 30, the first such program in the U.S. if approved by officials next year.

New Jersey accused the U.S. Department of Transportation of stalling its lawsuit challenging federal approval of New York City’s controversial congestion-pricing plan.

A plan to charge motorists driving into midtown Manhattan in New York City was challenged by neighboring New Jersey, which seeks to block the proposal as unfair to commuters.

The Federal Highway Administration on Sept. 7 is expected to initiate an Environmental Assessment associated with a proposed congestion pricing program for the city of New York.

People who rely on vehicle travel for work — including freight haulers — will be considered as Los Angeles’ congestion pricing pilot program takes shape.