Bill > A04592

This bill enacts the New York State Thruway Authority Accountability Act, which makes significant changes to the governance and oversight of the New York State Thruway Authority. The bill mandates that the Commissioner of the Department of Transportation (DOT) will serve as the chair of the Thruway Authority board, replacing the previous board appointment structure. All current board members' terms will terminate on March 31, 2025, with new board members required to have experience in transportation, business management, finance, accounting, or capital project management. The bill directs the DOT Commissioner to develop and submit a plan within 120 days to merge the Thruway Authority's operations with the Department of Transportation, with a guarantee that no employees will be terminated as a result of the merger. Additionally, the bill requires the Commissioner to conduct an independent, comprehensive forensic audit of the Thruway Authority every three years by a certified public accounting firm, with strict guidelines to ensure the auditor's independence. The auditor must report findings to various state legislative leaders and committees within one year. The bill also adds a requirement for the DOT to include any proposed Thruway Authority toll increases and their justification in its annual budget request, enhancing transparency and oversight of the authority's financial decisions.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4592