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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2015 - 2016
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | April 27, 2015 11:54 AM |
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| From: | Representative Mike Vereb |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | LEGISLATION that will require legislative approval of a proposed conversion of an existing, free-of-charge roadway in the PA Commonwealth |
| I soon will be introducing legislation that will require legislative approval of a proposed conversion of an existing, free-of-charge roadway in this Commonwealth – State Route, U.S. Route or Interstate – into a toll road. As our Commonwealth continues to grapple with how best to sufficiently fund an aging transportation infrastructure, the concept of tolling roads often comes up in discussion and debate as a way to generate additional revenue for the improvement or expansion of our transportation system. Tolling’s proponents contend that this user fee- based alternative can provide a more sustainable long-term funding source than can the gas tax. While the merits and drawbacks of tolling continue to be discussed and debated, I believe it is imperative that Pennsylvania’s Legislature be actively engaged in evaluating future toll conversion proposals for any roadway in this Commonwealth and have the authority to either approve or deny any such proposal. My legislation amends Title 74 (Transportation) of the Pa. C.S. to require approval by the General Assembly before an existing and free roadway in this Commonwealth can be converted into a toll road. It is important to note that my legislation also stipulates that the requirement of legislative approval does not apply to transportation projects authorized under Pennsylvania’s public-private transportation partnership law (Act 88 of 2012). These projects already have a mechanism for rejection by the General Assembly. I hope you can support this legislation. If you have any questions please contact Julianne Naccarato of my office via phone 705-7164 or email jnaccara@pahousegop.com. Thank you. |
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| View Attachment | ||
Introduced as HB1166