New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S04915

Introduced
2/14/25  
Refer
2/14/25  

Caption

Establishes a central business district toll exemption for first responders employed by the state, any municipality, a recognized corporation or authority, or certified organization, thereof who are performing any part of their duties in the central business district.

Summary

Bill S04915 proposes an amendment to the vehicle and traffic law to establish a toll exemption for first responders operating within the central business district of New York. Specifically, it stipulates that first responders employed by the state, municipalities, recognized corporations, or certified organizations will not be charged a toll while performing their duties in this area. The bill defines first responders to include various roles such as police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, correction officers, and dispatchers.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would alter the existing toll structure within the central business district, providing financial relief to first responders who are often called to emergency situations in this high-traffic area. This change may also encourage faster response times during emergencies, as first responders would not be impeded by toll costs. The amendment would necessitate updates to the vehicle and traffic law to accommodate this exemption, potentially influencing how toll revenues are managed and allocated.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S04915 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among those who advocate for first responders and their needs. Discussions indicate a recognition of the importance of facilitating quick access for emergency personnel in urban settings. However, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications of the toll exemption on the overall revenue generated from tolls in the central business district.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from discussions about the potential loss of toll revenue and how that could affect transportation funding or infrastructure projects. Some stakeholders might argue that while the exemption benefits first responders, it could create disparities in toll responsibilities among different user groups. There may also be debates about the definition of 'first responders' and whether it encompasses all necessary personnel involved in emergency response.

Companion Bills

NY A01599

Same As Establishes a central business district toll exemption for first responders employed by the state, any municipality, a recognized corporation or authority, or certified organization, thereof who are performing any part of their duties in the central business district.

Previously Filed As

NY A01599

Establishes a central business district toll exemption for first responders employed by the state, any municipality, a recognized corporation or authority, or certified organization, thereof who are performing any part of their duties in the central business district.

NY A11497

Establishes a central business district toll exemption during any period of strike by an employee organization, work stoppage or declared state of emergency

NY A11525

Exempts certain residents of the central business district from central business district tolls

NY S10537

Authorizes the Triborough bridge and tunnel authority to exempt certain residents of the central business district from the central business district toll.

NY S09171

Establishes a tax credit for commercial trucks entering into the central business district for all additional tolls charged on trips into the central business district after the first entry per day.

NY A10503

Establishes a tax credit for commercial trucks entering into the central business district for all additional tolls charged on trips into the central business district after the first entry per day.

NY S08079

Directs the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority to implement a toll discount plan for residents of Orange, Rockland, Dutchess and Putnam counties who commute to work in the city of New York while the central business district tolling program is in effect; provides for the repeal of such provisions upon the expiration thereof.

NY A01174

Establishes a central business district toll exemption for officers and employees of the city of New York, first responders, physicians, nurses, and people entering the city for medical treatment.

NY A03504

Establishes a central business district toll exemption for taxicabs.

NY HB5939

Businesses: business corporations; benefit corporations; authorize formation and establish duties of officers and directors. Amends and adds (See bill).

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.