Establishes an additional low emission zone toll in the central business district for vehicles that do not meet federal emission standards as set by the United States environmental protection agency.
NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT OF LEGISLATION submitted in accordance with Assembly Rule III, Sec 1(f)
BILL NUMBER: A10697
SPONSOR: Rules (Cunningham) TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to establishing
a low emission zone toll in the central business district
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
Establishes an additional low-emission zone toll in the central busi-
ness.: district
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 adds section 1704b to the vehicle and traffic law to add an
additional $13.60 tax for vehicles that do not meet the federal emis-
sions standard within the central business district
Section 2 sets the effective date immediately
JUSTIFICATION:
Implementing an Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in the central business
district of New York City could bring significant benefits, drawing on
the positive outcomes observed in other major cities such as London. One
of the primary advantages would be the reduction of air pollution. New
York City, like many metropolitan areas, suffers from high levels of
vehicle emissions, which contribute to poor air quality and adverse
health effects. Introducing a ULEZ would restrict the most polluting
vehicles from entering the central area, thereby reducing emissions of
nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM), both of which are
harmful to respiratory and cardivascular o health.
The experience of London, which implemented its ULEZ in April 2019,
provides a compelling case study. Since the introduction of the ULEZ,
London has seen significant improvements in air quality. According to
data from the Mayor of London's office, there has been a 44% reduction
in roadside NO2 concentrations within the ULEZ and a 27% reduction
across the wider city.. These improvements are attributed
to fewer high-emission vehicles entering the zone and an increase in
the number of cleaner, compliant vehicles. This has resulted in a heal-
thier environment for residents and visitors, reducing the incidence of
respiratory illnesses and other health problems as sociated with poor
air quality.
In addition to environmental benefits, a ULEZ in New York City could
also help alleviate traffic congestion. London's ULEZ has contributed to
a decrease in the number of vehicles on the roads within the zone. This
reduction in traffic volume has not only improved air quality but also
enhanced the efficiency of the transportation network. Fewer vehicles
mean less congestion, shorter travel times, and a more reliable public
transport system. For New York City, which struggles with chronic traf-
fic congestion, a ULEZ could provide similar benefits, making it easier
and faster to move around the city.
Moreover, implementing a ULEZ can stimulate economic benefits by promot-
ing green technology and infrastructure. The need for compliance with
ULEZ standards encourages the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles
and supports the development of charging infrastructure and other green
technologies. This can create new jobs and business opportunities in the
green economy sector. In London, the introduction of the U LEZ has
spurred investments in electric buses and cleaner taxi fleets, setting a
precedent that New York City could follow to become a leader in urban
sustainability.
Lastly, the introduction of a ULEZ aligns with broader climate goals.
New York City has ambitious targets to reduce its greenhouse gas emis-
sions, and tackling vehicle emissions is a crucial part of this strate-
gy. A ULEZ would significantly contribute to these effort s by cutting
down emissions from one of the largest sources: transportation. In
conclusion, based on London's successful implementation, a ULEZ in New
York City's central business district could deliver substantial environ-
mental, health, economic, and traffic management
benefits, helping to create a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable
urban environment.
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New bill.
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
None.
EFFECTIVE DATE:
Immediately.
