Albany, N.Y. – State Senator Michael H. Ranzenhofer has issued the following statement:
“It is without hesitation that I announce my staunchest opposition to a recent proposal made by the State Thruway Authority to increase commercial tolls on trucks by 45 percent. If the State Thruway is considered the blood vessel of the New York’s economy – allowing the flow of goods and commerce – then this toll increase serves as a damaging blockage.
While it could be characterized as a tax on trucks, this toll increase is nothing but a tax on consumers in disguise. The trucking industry will be forced to pass these increased costs from the products which they transport on to consumers. The costs for everything, from groceries to clothing, will spike as a result of the actions of the Thruway Authority.
The last two State Budgets made a commitment not to raise taxes on families, small businesses, manufactures and senior citizens throughout our community. Certainly, if fully implemented, this proposal would dishonor that commitment.”
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