Senator James Skoufis (D-Orange County) reports a win for Orange County commuters included in Monday’s proposed Senate budget. Under the provision set forth in his chamber’s blueprint, Orange County EZPass holders would receive a 20% discount for travel across the Tappan Zee Bridge. Currently, the discount program is only available to residents of Westchester and Rockland counties.

This win comes at a critical time for Orange County commuters, who are facing the financial threat of the MTA’s congestion pricing plan, which would cost an additional $15 per vehicle into Manhattan’s central business district–above and beyond existing, steep bridge tolls. The Senator is a plaintiff in a lawsuit aimed at halting the MTA’s congestion pricing plan.

“Keeping money in the pockets of the hardworking people of Orange County is my highest priority,” said Skoufis. “Including Orange County in the Tappan Zee Bridge’s resident discount program makes logical sense, and I’ll continue to fight for this provision’s inclusion as we negotiate toward a final budget. Ensuring Orange County commuters have viable and affordable transportation options has been and will continue to be one of my primary issues.”

The current toll on the Tappan Zee Bridge is $6.25 for EZPass holders, $5.00 with the resident discount. The price will increase to $7.75 for EZPass holders, $6.20 with the resident discount in 2027.