SERINO: STATE’S REVERSAL ON LICENSE PLATE PROPOSAL WIN FOR NEW YORKERS

HYDE PARK, NY—Senator Sue Serino today released the following statement in response to the news that the state has backed off its proposal to require New Yorkers to replace workable license plates, charging them upwards of $45 in the process.

Senator Sue Serino said, “New Yorkers came out in force against the state’s latest money grab, and today, their voices were heard as it was announced that the plan will not be going forward as proposed.

While this is a positive step in the right direction—and a major victory for hardworking New Yorkers—the Governor has said he intends to work with the Legislature next session to put forth a plan that works. I will continue to vocally oppose any plan that needlessly charges already over-taxed residents and I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure that any plan that is put forward protects public safety without needlessly digging into the pockets of our neighbors.”

Under the proposed License Replacement Program announced last month, in April 2020, New Yorkers who renew their vehicle registrations would have had to pay an additional $25 license plate replacement fee if their plates are ten years old or older—regardless of whether they are peeling or not. Those who wanted to keep their same plate number would be required to pay an additional $20 to do so.

Senator Serino came out against the proposal, issuing a public statement in opposition calling the proposal a ‘money grab.’ She also launched and online a petition in opposition which garnered almost 1,900 signatures in a matter of weeks.

Earlier today, a Siena poll was released that showed New Yorkers overwhelmingly opposed the proposal by a 60-31 percent margin. Shortly after the poll was released, a Governor’s spokesperson confirmed to the press that the proposal would not be moving forward as planned.