The administration of Governor Andrew Cuomo is fighting back, amid criticism over a plan requiring New Yorkers to get new license plates.
The new plates will cost $25 and Cuomo said they’re needed to make use of new EZ-Pass technology at the bridges and tunnels. DMV Commissioner Mark Schroeder said this isn’t new.
"The fee for new license plates has been $25 for over ten years - it was set by a law passed by the legislature and that law has been in place pre-dating this administration, since 2009,” Schroeder said.
He said criticism from lawmakers are “cheap press hits” and include “hypocrisy and misstatements.” Schroeder said Governor Cuomo would like to lower the $25 fee, and if lawmakers agree, they should come back for a special session.
Schroeder also opened the door to a potential compromise on requiring New Yorkers to get new plates.
“If the legislature can agree to a cost effective and practical plate inspection mechanism to determine what plates are still in good operating condition after the 10 year life and thus do not need to be replaced we would welcome the opportunity to be cooperative,” Schroeder said.
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