Truckers and other drivers just dodged a costly toll increase in New Hampshire.
A plan that would have hit many out-of-state drivers with much higher tolls has been stopped – at least for now.
State lawmakers approved a bill to raise transportation money by charging more to drivers from outside New Hampshire. The focus was on users of the state’s turnpike system.
Ayotte hits the brakes
Gov. Kelly Ayotte slammed the brakes on the proposal. The governor has said in the past that she opposes increasing toll rates across the state.
“I have clearly said that I do not support raising the tolls,” Ayotte wrote in her veto message. “I will continue to focus on making New Hampshire more affordable for all.”
SB627 called for raising rates on out-of-staters on Jan. 1, 2027.
It targeted anyone paying cash, using an out-of-state E-ZPass, or driving through a toll without a transponder.
How much drivers would pay depended on the toll plaza and the type of vehicle.
For five-axle trucks at the Hampton tolls on Interstate 95, the toll would have nearly doubled – from $4.95 to $9.50. At six other toll plazas, the same trucks would have seen an increase ranging from $1.25 to $3.25.
Toll rates for in-state E-ZPass customers would remain the same.
The extra money would have paid for maintenance and operating costs on New Hampshire’s turnpike system.
The bill would also have allowed tolls to rise over time with inflation.
DOT says it needs more cash
State transportation officials say they still need more money to keep roads and bridges in good shape.
The New Hampshire Department of Transportation says its 10-year plan is short about $400 million without new revenue.
The bill now returns to the Senate. Lawmakers there could try to override Ayotte’s veto. Any attempt to override must wait until lawmakers return this fall. LL
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