Bill > S00031

This bill amends the public authorities law to require the New York State Thruway Authority to issue emergency services permits for ambulances and fire vehicles, allowing them to travel toll-free between interchanges and barriers when responding to emergencies. The bill replaces the previous mechanism of issuing refunds with a permit system, while still maintaining the option for the authority to refund tolls during the permit application process. The bill defines "ambulance," "fire vehicle," and "emergency operation" by referencing existing definitions in the vehicle and traffic law, and grants the authority the ability to establish documentation requirements to prove that a vehicle was engaged in an emergency operation at the time a toll was incurred. Specifically, this change aims to support and expedite emergency response vehicles by removing financial barriers during critical service missions, ensuring that ambulances and fire vehicles can quickly and freely navigate the thruway when responding to urgent situations.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S31