Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,I,C-Batavia) recently voiced his support for the Thruway Authority’s decision to drop its proposed 45 percent toll increase on commercial trucks, a move that would have had disastrous effects on families, businesses and consumers in New York. Hawley has been a vocal critic of the Thruway’s proposal since it was first introduced over the summer, and indicated that significant reforms must be put in place to address the Authority’s long-term issues, including measures contained in the Thruway Authority Accountability Act, of which he is a co-sponsor.

“The Thruway’s toll increase was met with widespread resistance from families and businesses across the state, and its elimination is proof of what New Yorkers can achieve by working together to make their voices heard,” said Hawley. “However, if we are going to avoid the threat of future toll increases, the Thruway must fundamentally change the way it conducts its business. I am a co-sponsor of the Thruway Authority Accountability Act that would audit the agency’s finances, reduce costs by merging its operations with the Department of Transportation, and appoint new, expert leadership to move the Authority forward. These are the kind of common-sense reforms that will protect our families and businesses from the unfair burden of excessive tolls.”