SUPPORT
US
JOIN
E-MAIL LIST
TAKE
ACTION
 |
|
Capitol
Watch > 2008 Bill Ratings
GREEN E-ZPASS
This bill amends New York State public authorities law in relation to providing electronic toll collection discounts for certain fuel-efficient vehicles. The measure would provide a 10 percent reduction in tolls due on New York State toll roads for those vehicles that have a highway mileage rating of 35 miles per gallon or greater.
According to the Union of Concerned Scientists, in the northeastern United States the transportation sector is the largest contributor to climate-altering carbon dioxide emissions. In addition, the combustion of fossil fuels from transportation results in negative impacts in New York’s overall air quality, including increased levels of ozone that trigger asthma attacks and contribute to smog. One of the most effective ways to reduce these emissions is to encourage the use of vehicles that utilize cleaner, renewable technologies, or that simply burn less fossil fuel per mile. By providing a toll discount, this bill creates an incentive that may encourage consumers to purchase and drive more fuel-efficient vehicles. This measure is sound environmental policy in that it does not target any specific technology. Rather, it highlights a desired performance standard that will achieve a clear environmental benefit and leaves eligibility open to any vehicle that can meet that standard.
Environmental Advocates of New York supports this bill. |
