Requires the suspension of the collection of tolls on public roads during a state declaration of disaster emergency on the New York state thruway.
Summary
This bill would amend the Public Authorities Law to require the New York State Thruway Authority to suspend toll collection on public roads when a state-declared disaster emergency triggers a required evacuation. The suspension would apply during evacuations ordered because of a natural or man-made disaster, and it would cover people using toll roads during that emergency evacuation period.
The measure is aimed at reducing barriers to evacuation and easing the burden on motorists who must leave an affected area during a disaster. It directs the Authority to adopt rules and regulations to implement the toll suspension, and it would take effect 120 days after becoming law, with immediate authorization for any needed regulatory changes.
Impact
If enacted, the bill would change the Thruway Authority’s toll-collection authority under the Public Authorities Law by creating a mandatory toll waiver during qualifying disaster evacuations. It would affect toll roads and public roads where tolls are collected, particularly the New York State Thruway, and would require the Authority to update its rules and procedures to suspend tolls during state-declared disaster emergencies under the Executive Law.
Sentiment
The bill’s purpose suggests generally favorable public-safety intent, with a focus on helping evacuees during emergencies and reducing costs at a time when drivers are under mandatory evacuation orders. No committee transcript or vote record is available, so there is no documented legislative debate or recorded opposition in the provided materials. Based on the text alone, the proposal appears framed as an emergency-response and consumer-relief measure rather than a controversial policy change.
Contention
The main potential point of contention is financial and operational: suspending tolls could reduce revenue for the Thruway Authority and may raise questions about how and when an emergency evacuation is formally determined. Another possible issue is the scope of the mandate, since the bill requires toll suspension during any qualifying state-declared disaster emergency evacuation, which could limit administrative discretion. No specific objections or supporters are identified in the available record.
Same As
Requires the suspension of the collection of tolls on public roads during a state declaration of disaster emergency on the New York state thruway.