Albany, NY, December 11, 2025

The trucking industry in New York is voicing strong opposition to a proposed 1% surcharge on tolls scheduled for January 2026, which could escalate operational costs for businesses and consumers. Industry leaders claim the surcharge represents a hidden toll increase, urging Governor Hochul to reconsider the measure. The New York State Thruway Authority’s decision has raised concerns regarding its impact on small businesses and the general public, as the trucking sector plays a crucial role in the state’s economy.

Trucking Industry Opposes New Thruway Toll Surcharge in New York

Governor Hochul Called to Address Potential Cost Increasing Measure for Businesses

Albany, NY

Trucking companies and commercial carriers throughout New York are raising alarms about a proposed 1% surcharge on tolls processed through commercial toll-management providers, scheduled to take effect in January 2026. This initiative from the New York State Thruway Authority is seen by many in the trucking sector as a hidden toll increase that could significantly elevate costs for transporters and consumers alike.

The surcharge will specifically impact the entire E-ZPass network for commercial accounts, leading to heightened operational pressures on businesses. Industry representatives argue that the Thruway Authority’s decision excluded the traditional public input process typically accompanying such adjustments, coming on the heels of a report from the state comptroller which highlighted $276 million in unpaid tolls and significant issues with toll collection. Trucking advocates are urging Governor Kathy Hochul to intervene, pushing for a pause in the surcharge implementation while exploring alternatives that wouldn’t place additional burdens on truckers, farmers, or average New Yorkers.

Understanding the Toll Management Service Provider Program

In October 2025, the New York State Thruway Authority announced its intention to modernize toll collection through the newly established Toll Management Service Provider program. This initiative includes the implementation of a 1% surcharge aimed at covering costs associated with the upgraded toll management system. While the modernization has potential long-term benefits, opponents quickly identified concerns about short-term cost implications that could ripple through the economy.

Significance of the Trucking Industry in New York

The trucking industry is a cornerstone of New York’s economy, integral to the delivery of goods across various sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and retail. By facilitating the movement of products, the industry supports jobs and livelihoods along the supply chain. As such, any potential increase in transportation costs could translate into higher prices for consumers, endangering the affordability of essential goods and services statewide.

Concerns Over Increased Operational Costs

Business leaders within the trucking sector contend that the surcharge introduces a hidden toll increase, posing an unfair burden on small businesses and families who depend on economical transport options. In a landscape where margins are already tight, any additional costs could necessitate difficult decisions, such as raising prices or cutting back on services, ultimately affecting the broader community.

Call to Action for Governor Hochul

In response to the implementation plan, trucking groups are urging Governor Hochul to take decisive action. They are asking her to advocate for a reevaluation of the surcharge and facilitate communication between the Thruway Authority and affected stakeholders. The aim is to create a more collaborative approach that considers the long-term implications for both the trucking industry and the general public.

Possible Alternatives to the Surcharge

The stakeholders have begun exploring alternative methods to address the financial needs of the Thruway Authority without imposing a surcharge on commercial tolls. Ideas include incentivizing timely toll payments, improving collection methods to recover unpaid tolls, and even exploring technology partnerships to streamline costs without pushing expenses onto consumers and businesses.

Conclusion

The proposed 1% surcharge by the New York State Thruway Authority poses significant concerns for the trucking industry and the wider New York economy. With close collaboration between businesses, government officials, and regulatory bodies, it is feasible to arrive at solutions that support the necessary modernization of tolls while retaining the essential balance between regulation and economic viability. As New Yorkers, staying engaged and supportive of local businesses is crucial for fostering sustainable economic growth.

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