Paterson’s Budget Forces Long Islanders to Pay 25% More for Driver Licenses & Registrations Starting September 1st

Long Islanders will be paying 25 percent more to drive a car, truck, motorcycle, or boat when the latest round of tax and fee increases in Governor Paterson’s State Budget take effect on September 1^st.

“Adding new taxes to driving and other aspects of everyday life is not the answer in recessionary times. Reducing taxes and controlling state spending are the best ways to help create jobs and help families better make ends meet,” said State Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (8^th Senate District), who voted against the DMV tax and fee increases.

Starting September 1^st, under the Governor’s budget drivers will have to pay 25 percent more to register passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, trailers, motorcycles, and motorboats. Long Island drivers will also have to pay an additional $25 registration surcharge as part of the MTA bailout. 

Drivers will also have to pay 25 percent more to obtain or renew their driver’s license. In addition, Governor Paterson is redesigning state license plates which all drivers will be forced to purchase starting on April 1, 2010.

Senator Fuschillo urged residents who oppose these tax increases to contact Governor Paterson by calling 518-474-8390.