Victory for taxpayers across state

ALBANY, N.Y. (WIVB) - It looks like you may not have to dig into your wallet for new license plates next year.

A major victory for taxpayers all across New York State. The new higher  fees for new license plates will not go into effect next year. That is thanks in part to a huge petition drive by county clerks across the state.

County clerks converged on the steps of the State Capitol, telling lawmakers, taxpayers are sick of being nickeled and dimed.

"Of more than 100 new taxes and fees that Albany voted into law this year, the new plate plan was a particularly bad idea. In my county alone, the unemployment rate has reached almost ten percent," said Patty Ritchie, President of Association of County Clerks.

Several members of the western New York delegation were on hand, to show their support. Many working behind the scenes to pressure state leaders to drop the higher fees.

"They're politicians, even on the second floor, and frankly, it's wrong anyways. Because there have many so many fees raised and everything, I think people are fed up and they should be, they've had enough," said Senator Dale Volker.

Senator Bill Stachowski said, "We're glad that he and the assembly have looked at it and agreed that it's a bad idea."

This was rewarding for Erie County Clerk Kathy Hochul, after spearheading the petition drive.

Watch video to see News 4's Don Postles interview Kathy Hocul.