Legislators pass bill that will heighten fines for drivers who block city bus lanes

Lawmakers passed a bill last Friday that will increase fines for blocking buses in the city.
The bill that went through the state Legislature allows the MTA to expand the number of automated cameras used to enforce bus lanes and ticket drivers who illegally drive there.
As of now, camera enforcement is at 16 bus routes in the city.
The new bill is expected to be signed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo and will remove the time restrictions for bus lanes to 24/7 enforcement.
The bill will also allow the city to fine cars that block the bus lanes, starting at $50 for first offences and increasing to more than $200 after the third.
"This legislation is a huge deal, and will ultimately help us improve bus speeds across the city - a key component of giving our customers the transit system they deserve," says MTA chairman and CEO Patrick Foye.