East Hudson Valley News

In response to National Pothole Day, Assemblyman Matt Slater has proposed a new piece of legislation aimed at alleviating the financial burden on New Yorkers caused by pothole-related vehicle damage. The legislation introduces a Pothole Tax Credit that allows drivers to claim up to $1,000 for tire repairs due to potholes on state roads.

“Potholes are an all-too-familiar obstacle for drivers, often leaving us swerving to avoid costly damage to our vehicles,” said Slater. “If the state can’t maintain its roads, taxpayers shouldn’t be left footing the bill. This legislation is one step toward making Albany address the chronic neglect of our infrastructure.”

The issue of potholes is particularly pressing in areas like the Hudson Valley, where road conditions are among the worst in New York. According to the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), 60% of roads and half of the bridges in this region are rated poorly, yet funding remains disproportionately low compared to other areas. This funding gap has led to a significant backlog in necessary road repairs.

Assemblyman Slater, alongside other officials and industry leaders, has long advocated for increased funding for infrastructure in the Hudson Valley. Despite having more state-maintained lane miles than any other area in New York, the region endures a 16-year repaving cycle compared to a 12-year average elsewhere. A report from TRIP, a national transportation research organization, highlighted that poor road conditions cost New Yorkers an average of $3,600 annually due to vehicle damage, crashes, and traffic delays. The proposed tax credit aims to directly offset these repair costs for damages incurred on state roads.

“This is not a criticism of the hardworking men and women or the regional leadership who do their best with the limited resources they’re given," Slater emphasized. "This is about the need for greater investment in areas that directly affect millions of New Yorkers instead of continuing to waste money on misguided priorities that don’t address our state’s real challenges. Our residents deserve better roads, and they shouldn’t have to wait years for action.”

The proposed tax credit would be applicable throughout the year so drivers can claim it regardless of when damage occurs. Additionally, New Yorkers are encouraged to report local potholes by calling 1-800-POTHOLE.