Bill > S00492

This bill, known as the "Toll Payer Protection Act," makes several key changes: 1. It clarifies the definition of "owner" for the purposes of toll collection liability, including beneficial or equitable owners, title holders, and vehicle registrants. 2. It requires public authorities to send three separate notices of liability to owners before they can be held liable for unpaid tolls, with escalating penalties for non-payment. 3. It establishes procedures for owners to appeal toll liability allegations and provides certain defenses, such as the vehicle being stolen or leased at the time. 4. It prohibits public authorities from selling or transferring toll debt to collections agencies unless certain conditions are met, and requires them to offer installment payment plans. 5. It mandates annual public reporting on the operations and outcomes of cashless tolling systems, including locations, payment volumes, notices sent, fees collected, and adjudication results. The bill aims to provide greater protections and transparency for drivers using toll facilities operated by public authorities in New York.