N.Y., N.J. Take First Step In Reforming Port Authority Following Bridgegate Scandal

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - Lawmakers in New York and New Jersey have taken what they call a first step in reforming the Port Authority after the bridge scandal.

To make changes to the Port Authority, identical bills must pass both state legislators, which has already happened, WCBS 880's Alex Silverman reported.

Listen to N.Y., N.J. Take First Step In Reforming Port Authority Following Bridgegate Scandal

Westchester Assemblyman Tom Abinanti said the bill's passing, 612 to zero, is due to one main reason.

"If you were to talk to somebody on the street and explained to them what this bill does, they'd say, 'We don't have that now?" Abinanti said.

As Silverman reported, it subjects the Port Authority to the same open record laws as other state agencies, requires meaningful hearings before tolls go up and protects whistlebowers, says N.J. Senator Bob Gordon.

"Some of those police officers on the bridge who were so troubled by this traffic study and its impact on safety would have reported what occurred," he said.

Both governors say they are reviewing it.

Assemblyman Jim Brennan of Brooklyn said if either vetoes, "we will cross...(laughs) I won't even say it."

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