New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S09737

Introduced
4/2/26  

Caption

Prohibits rental vehicle companies from imposing any fees, charges or penalties, other than the actual cost of a toll, on an authorized driver for such driver's use of a rental vehicle.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will significantly alter the way rental vehicle companies operate in relation to toll charges. Currently, it is common for these companies to impose additional fees beyond the actual toll amount, leading to consumer dissatisfaction and financial strain for renters, who may not foresee these additional charges. The new regulations would align rental vehicle practices in New York with more consumer-friendly standards, promoting a fairer rental experience for customers.

Summary

Bill S09737 aims to amend New York's general business law by prohibiting rental vehicle companies from imposing any fees or penalties, other than the actual cost of tolls, on authorized drivers using rental vehicles. The legislation seeks to ensure that consumers are not burdened with unexpected charges when utilizing toll collection facilities that employ electronic systems. This bill reflects a growing trend in consumer advocacy aimed at enhancing transparency and fairness in the rental vehicle industry.

Contention

While the bill is positioned as beneficial to consumers, there may be contention regarding the potential financial impact on rental companies. Some opponents might argue that preventing companies from charging fees could lead to higher base rental rates, as companies seek to mitigate potential losses incurred from toll charges. Additionally, concerns could arise about enforcement and compliance with the new rules, particularly regarding how rental companies adapt their business models in practice.

Companion Bills

NY A04665

Same As Prohibits rental vehicle companies from imposing any fees, charges or penalties, other than the actual cost of a toll, on an authorized driver for such driver's use of a rental vehicle.

Previously Filed As

NY S02691

Prohibits rental vehicle companies from imposing any fees, charges or penalties, other than the actual cost of a toll, on an authorized driver for such driver's use of a rental vehicle.

NY A04665

Prohibits rental vehicle companies from imposing any fees, charges or penalties, other than the actual cost of a toll, on an authorized driver for such driver's use of a rental vehicle.

NY A08522

Enacts the "guaranteed reservation protection for rental car customers act"; provides that a rental vehicle company shall not charge any authorized driver a rental rate higher than the rate quoted in such driver's reservation.

NY S09298

Requires rental vehicle companies provide for additional liability insurance on rental vehicles and have such insurance be primary during each rental period.

NY A10528

Requires rental vehicle companies provide for additional liability insurance on rental vehicles and have such insurance be primary during each rental period.

NY A10913

Requires motor vehicle rental companies to provide consumers with all associated fees at the time of rental including mandatory fees and extra costs.

NY S09540

Requires motor vehicle rental companies to provide consumers with all associated fees at the time of rental including mandatory fees and extra costs.

NY HB4679

Relating to toll service fees charged by vehicle rental companies.

NY S2084

Imposes certain requirements on motor vehicle rental companies that equip vehicles with electronic toll transponders.

NY HB2154

Imposing property tax on rental and leased vehicles and discontinuing the excise tax on the rental and lease of such vehicles.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.