Gov. Kathy Hochul has vetoed legislation that would have exempted ambulances and fire vehicles from paying tolls on the state Thruway if engaged in emergency operations.

A.34/S.31 was approved unanimously by both the state House and Senate, where it was co-sponsored by Sen. George Borrello, R-Sunset Bay.

“The New York State Thruway Authority currently issues emergency services permits to fire vehicles which exempt such vehicles from paying tolls while they are engaged in an emergency operation. This is a great idea, however, this exemption is not currently automatically given to ambulances. EMS agencies are currently allowed to apply for reimbursement for toll expenses, but the process is often complicated, lengthy, and costly, leading many agencies to the conclusion that it is not worth it to apply for reimbursement,” wrote sponsors Christopher Eachus, D-Central Valley, and Sen. Leroy Comrie, D-St. Albans.

The legislation had passed the Assembly during the 2023-24 legislative session but did not pass the Senate. It passed both houses this year. Fire departments and ambulance companies in Chautauqua County could have benefited from the legislation due to their proximity to the Thruway and trips to Buffalo medical facilities. Eachus and Comrie said some departments choose to avoid the Thruway to avoid tolls.

“Because of the costs associated with tolls, some EMS agencies find ways to avoid the thruway, which increases response times,” the lawmakers said. “No New Yorker’s life should be put at risk because an emergency services vehicle is unable to reach them in time because of tolls. Requiring such an exemption would save our EMS agencies money while they are in the process of saving lives.”