NY fed up with CC scam.
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Summary of NY Petition Targeting E-ZPass Late Fees and Congestion Pricing
Quick Overview
A New York driver, frustrated by the high costs associated with E-ZPass tolls and the newly implemented congestion pricing, has initiated an online petition that has quickly gained traction, amassing over 7,000 signatures. This movement highlights widespread dissatisfaction with the current tolling system, which many view as a form of “legal extortion.”
Key Points
Petition Launch and Support: The petition, started by Bronx resident Joel Becerra, seeks to reform the E-ZPass system and address congestion pricing, which critics argue disproportionately affects lower-income drivers.
Financial Burden: Petitioners report accumulating significant debt due to late fees associated with E-ZPass, with some claiming penalties exceeding $100,000.
Calls for Reform: The petition advocates for greater accountability in toll revenue allocation, transparent pricing structures, and a reevaluation of the congestion pricing plan to prevent undue hardship on vulnerable populations.
Legislative Background: Previous attempts to cap E-ZPass late fees, notably the Toll Payer Protection Act, have faced opposition from state leadership, despite legislative support.
Personal Accounts of Toll Struggles: Numerous drivers have shared their experiences of being overwhelmed by late fees, often leading to unmanageable financial situations.
Detailed Breakdown
Petition Motivation
Joel Becerra’s petition stems from personal frustration with E-ZPass and the congestion pricing scheme that charges drivers entering Midtown Manhattan. He describes the fees as “absurd” and likens them to “legal extortion.” The petition aims to garner public support for a thorough review of these systems.
Financial Impact on Drivers
Many signatories report that the late fees associated with E-ZPass can escalate quickly. For instance, late fees begin at $50 after 30 days and can increase substantially, leading to financial strain for drivers. Becerra notes that he has received numerous messages from individuals sharing similar grievances about accumulating debt due to these fees.
Demands for Accountability
The petition outlines several key demands:
- Pause on Congestion Pricing: It calls for an independent study to assess the impact of congestion pricing on low-income drivers.
- Transparent Pricing: It requests an overhaul of the E-ZPass system to eliminate surprise fees and simplify the payment structure.
Legislative Challenges
Despite the overwhelming support for the Toll Payer Protection Act, which sought to cap late fees, it has been repeatedly blocked by state officials, including former Governor Andrew Cuomo and current Governor Kathy Hochul. Hochul’s administration argues that capping fees could undermine the financial stability of the state’s transportation infrastructure.
Personal Testimonials
Drivers like Freddy Cordova and Nico Dancona have shared their struggles with the E-ZPass system, detailing how quickly fees can accumulate unnoticed. Cordova reports receiving bills exceeding $300 monthly, while Dancona describes a backlog of $600 due to unmonitored toll charges.
Notable Quotes & Data
- Joel Becerra: “It’s a legal extortion … the absurd amount of tolls, of violations, of fees that E-ZPass charges.”
- Freddy Cordova: “I get the bills, over $300 something a month.”
- Nico Dancona: “Once my E-ZPass ran out, I wasn’t thinking about it, because you just had it in your dashboard sitting there — and then suddenly now you have $600 that you have to pay.”
Context & Implications
The petition reflects a broader discontent with the tolling practices in New York, particularly as urban congestion continues to rise. The financial burden placed on drivers, especially those with limited incomes, raises questions about the equity of such pricing systems. As the petition gains momentum, it may prompt state officials to reconsider the current tolling frameworks and their implications for New Yorkers.
In conclusion, the growing support for Becerra’s petition signals a critical moment for transportation policy in New York, highlighting the need for reform that prioritizes fairness and transparency in tolling practices.