BILL NUMBER: S9026
SPONSOR: COMRIE
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the public authorities law, in relation to the issuance
of permits to exempt ambulances and fire vehicles from paying tolls on
the New York state thruway when engaged in an emergency operation
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
This legislation requires the thruway authority to issue emergency
services permits to ambulance and fire vehicles, which would exempt such
vehicles from paying tolls while engaged in an emergency operation.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1: Amends section 378-a of the public authorities law, in
relation to requiring the thruway authority to issue emergency services
permits for certain emergency vehicles, exempting such vehicles from
tolls. Requires the thruway authority to promulgate rules and regu-
lations to establish a process for applications for emergency service
permits and issue refunds in the interim period.
Section 2. Sets effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
The New York State Thruway Authority currently issues emergency services
permits to fire vehicles which exempt such vehicles from paying tolls
while they are engaged in an emergency operation. This is a great idea,
however, this exemption is not currently automatically given to ambu-
lances. EMS agencies are currently allowed to apply for reimbursement
for toll expenses, but the process is often complicated, lengthy, and
costly, leading many agencies to the conclusion that it is not worth it
to apply for reimbursement.
Because of the costs associated with tolls, some EMS agencies find ways
to avoid the thruway, which increases response times. No New Yorker's
life should be put at risk because an emergency services vehicle is
unable to reach them in time because of tolls. Requiring such an
exemption would save our EMS agencies money while they are in the proc-
ess of saving lives.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY: 2023-24
A6136-B: Passed Assembly, S6645-B: Referred to Transportation
2025
A34: Passed Assembly, S31: Passed Senate (Vetoed)
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
Minimal, as charges are already reimbursable.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.

Statutes affected:
S9026: 378-a public authorities law, 378-a(1) public authorities law