Ortt’s Bill to Create Level Playing Field Among NFTA Passes in Senate

ALBANY – Senator Rob Ortt (R,C,I – North Tonawanda) today announced the New York State Senate has unanimously passed his legislation that would ensure Niagara County residents have a voice on the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) board, and would achieve true parity between Erie and Niagara counties in the decision making process. 

Specifically, Ortt’s bill (S6360) would add two members to the NFTA board who must be appointed by the Niagara County legislature. The board is currently comprised of 10 members who are recommended and appointed by the Erie County executive, Erie County legislature and the governor. Statutorily, the Erie County executive appoints one member, the Erie County legislature appoints one member, and the governor appoints the rest of the members on the board.

“My legislation aims to put Niagara County and Erie County on a level playing field when representing the NFTA,” said Senator Ortt. “The NFTA operates in both counties, so I think it’s important to give them an equal say when it comes to key issues like maintaining services or determining bus routes. This bill will ensure fairness and equal opportunity for residents throughout the Buffalo Niagara region.”  

The NFTA chairman and each of the members are appointed to eight-year terms.      

The bill has been sent to the Assembly.