Ritchie Measure to Cut Costs for Farmers, Make Transport of Agriculture Vehicles Easier Signed Into Law

 A bill sponsored by Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Senator Patty Ritchie that saves farmers money and makes it easier for farm vehicles to travel on roadways has been signed into law by Governor Andrew Cuomo.

Previously, agriculture plated vehicles could only travel on public highways to landfills, motor vehicle repair shops or between portions of a farm or farms.  Now, under Senator Ritchie’s measure (S.7180-A), vehicles registered for agricultural purposes will be permitted to travel on public highways from their point of sale to a farm.

“Before now, farm vehicles needed to be transported by trailer from their point of sale to the farm, adding to the cost of the vehicle and placing an unnecessary burden on farmers,” said Senator Ritchie.   

“By removing this inconsistency in the law, we will save farmers from extra costs and make it easier for them to transport the vehicles that are essential to their operations.”

The bipartisan measure was sponsored in the Assembly by Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther.

“Cutting red tape and reducing costs for farmers is essential to ensuring that New York State’s leading industry continues to grow,” said Assemblywoman Gunther. “I am pleased to see this bill signed into law, and look forward to seeing how it makes doing business easier for hardworking farmers across our state.”

Signing of the legislation continues Senator Ritchie’s work to find ways to support farmers and help them overcome the challenges they face. Most recently, Senator Ritchie toured farms in Jefferson County to survey drought damage and hear from farmers about how the state can help them recover.  She plans to host a hearing later this month where local farmers and agribusiness owners can share how the dry summer has impacted their operations.