In recognition of National Pothole Day yesterday, Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) has introduced legislation to address the mounting costs New Yorkers face due to vehicle damage caused by poorly maintained roads. The proposed Pothole Tax Credit would allow drivers whose tires are damaged by potholes on state roads to claim a tax credit of up to $1,000 for repairs.
“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.”
Potholes remain a persistent and dangerous issue on New York’s roadways, particularly in areas like the Hudson Valley, which has some of the worst-rated roads in the state. According to the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), 60% of the roads and half of the bridges in the Hudson Valley are in poor condition, yet the region consistently receives less proportional funding than others. This disparity has contributed to a significant backlog of needed repairs.
Assemblyman Slater has consistently joined other elected officials and industry leaders in advocating for increased funding for the Hudson Valley region. Despite being home to the most state-maintained lane miles in New York, Hudson Valley faces a 16-year repaving cycle—significantly longer than the 12-year average in other regions. A 2024 report by TRIP, a national transportation research organization, found that poor road conditions cost New Yorkers an average of $3,600 annually in vehicle damage, crashes and traffic delays. Slater’s proposed tax credit would directly offset 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. 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 Pothole Tax Credit would apply year-round, ensuring drivers can claim the credit regardless of when damage occurs. New Yorkers are also encouraged to report potholes in their communities by calling 1-800-POTHOLE.