Directs the New York state thruway authority to establish an electronic toll collection device for trucks used by farms, which grants a 10% discount for use of the thruway

BILL NUMBER:S5400

Title of bill

An act to amend the public authorities law, in relation to directing the New York state thruway authority to establish a farm EZ pass which grants discounted tolls for certain motor vehicles used by persons engaged in agricultural production

Purpose

Directs the New York state thruway authority to establish an electronic toll collection device for trucks used by farms, which grants a 10% discount for use of the thruway.

Summary of provisions

Section 1: Adds a new section 378-b to the public authorities law.

Section 2: Sets the effective date.

Justification

There are many small farms that operate in New York State. Similar to other small businesses, they are struggling with rising costs to transport their products. This legislation seeks to help alleviate some of that burden by providing a ten percent discount on single unit trucks and other larger vehicles used to support farms activities. Currently the NYS Thruway Authority provides a ten percent discount on tolls to owners who drive certain low emission vehicles. It is not unreasonable or cost prohibitive to allow farmers the same discount.

Legislative history

This is a new bill.

Fiscal implications

To be determined.

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the one hundred twentieth day after it shall have become a law; provided, however that, effective immediately, any rules and regulations necessary to implement the provisions of this act on its effective date are authorized and directed to be completed on or before such date.