News Flash

Mineola, NY (December 9, 2024) – Today, led by Legislator Seth Koslow, the Democratic Caucus of the Nassau County Legislature unveiled bold legislation to repeal excessive and illegal red-light camera fees and ensure refunds for drivers. Standing together at the press conference, legislators emphasized the need for justice, fairness, and accountability to correct an over decade-long injustice ruled illegal by the courts.

Sponsoring the legislation and leading the charge was Legislator Seth Koslow, who introduced the “Fair Fees Accountability Act” aimed at delivering justice to Nassau families.

"For over a decade, Nassau drivers have been paying illegal fees—fees that the courts have now confirmed were never supposed to exist," said Koslow. "These fees ballooned from $15 in 2011 to $100 in 2017. That’s $150 for something that was supposed to be capped at $50. This was not about traffic safety; this was highway robbery. Our legislation fully repeals these illegal fees, creates a refund fund to reimburse affected drivers over five years, and establishes an oversight committee to ensure transparency and fairness in the refund process."

The proposed “Fair Fees Accountability Act” will ensure Nassau County drivers receive justice by creating a dedicated refund fund. Over five years, eligible drivers will receive reimbursements for the excessive fees they were forced to pay. An independent oversight committee will manage the refund process to ensure transparency and prevent political interference.

Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton emphasized the need for swift action: "Today, we gather to correct an over decade-long injustice inflicted on Nassau County’s hardworking families—an injustice the courts have unanimously ruled was illegal," said Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton in her opening remarks. "Excessive fees attached to red-light camera tickets have burdened countless drivers for far too long, and it’s time for action. While the courts have done their part, it’s now our duty as legislators to ensure that the County takes immediate steps to repeal these fees and refund the money unlawfully taken from our residents."

Legislator Arnie Drucker highlighted the program’s historical misuse: "Since 2009, this program has strayed far from its original intent. The red-light cameras were meant to save lives, not drain wallets. The appellate court’s decision is clear: these fees were illegal. Our legislation ensures refunds are distributed responsibly without jeopardizing essential County services."

Legislator Carrie Solages emphasized the financial strain these fees placed on working families: "These fees disproportionately hurt families in communities like mine, where every dollar counts. Refunding these fees is not just about fairness; it’s about restoring trust in our government."

Legislator Debra Mulé also expressed her strong support: "This legislation is long overdue. For years, Nassau families have been burdened with illegal fees, and we now have an opportunity to right this wrong. This is about delivering justice and restoring fairness to our residents."

Legislator Scott Davis addressed the need for transparency and oversight: "Our legislation includes strong accountability measures, such as the creation of an oversight committee, to ensure this refund process is handled fairly and without political gamesmanship. This isn’t just about money; it’s about justice. Our residents deserve a government that works for them, not against them."

The "Fair Fees and Accountability Act" includes strong accountability measures and demands answers regarding how the excess funds were used. Koslow stressed, "The County Executive has delayed long enough. It’s time to refund every penny owed to Nassau families."

In her closing statement, Minority Leader DeRiggi-Whitton reiterated the importance of the legislation: "The message is clear: Nassau County drivers deserve justice, accountability, and fairness. This legislation is our commitment to righting this wrong and ensuring it never happens again. The County Executive has a choice—stand with Nassau families or face the consequences of inaction."

The Democratic Caucus calls on the County Executive and Republican legislators to join them in passing this critical legislation for the benefit of all Nassau residents.