Tools

Feedback: Traffic Ticket Fines To Jump Under Cuomo Plan

Story Published: Jan 25, 2013 at 5:29 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jan 25, 2013 at 7:17 PM EDT

Governor Cuomo wants to put the brakes on plea bargains for speeders.

If you're clocked at more than 20 miles per hour over the limit, the court might no longer be able to give you a break. 

You and your judge might not be too happy about that.

"I don't know that it would be favorable as far as limiting our authority to decide on a plea," said Gary Graber, president of the New York State Magistrates Association.

Cuomo's proposal is aimed at raising more money for the state budget as that's where most of your traffic fine goes.

But that's not all - Cuomo also wants to extend the state's $80 surcharge on traffic tickets to some non-moving violations.

It's no secret that when the state needs money, it often hikes fines and charges.

But some drivers will tell you they are tired of being the target.

"I think that the governor is taking more and more from us and we're not really seeing much in return. I don't know how much more he's going to be able to go to the well," said Bill Keith of Penfield, New York. 

"I feel as though we have the right to be able to plead our case down," said Amy Ellsworth of Fort Covington. 

State Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R. - 117th District) calls it another money-grab by the state.

It is state legislators who'll have the say on this, as Cuomo's proposal is just that - a proposal.

 

Share Your Thoughts for Your Turn or leave a comment on our Facebook  Facebook page
Monday, May 20, 2013
, Watertown, NY

On Demand

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

What's On TonightFull Schedule

On Wall Street