Rep. Dauphinais Reacts to Malloy’s Plan to Bond $10M for Tolls Study

Posted on July 19, 2018

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HARTFORD – Tuesday night, Governor Malloy announced he will be imposing his power of executive order to request the Department of Transportation conduct a $10 million dollar feasibility study for the purpose of implementing electronic tolls.

In his statement, Gov. Malloy said “During this past legislative session, we heard time and again from legislators that they wished for more information regarding electronic tolling, including specific recommendations with respect to its possible implementation.”

“Governor Malloy’s decision to implement his power of executive order in order to bypass the legislature and the voices of Connecticut’s residents is exactly why this state is a fiscal mess,” Rep. Dauphinais said. “This past session House and Senate Democrats brought forth various toll related proposals but never received enough support to be called to the floor for a discussion or vote. This is a bullying tactic used by Gov. Malloy to push through his agenda, irresponsibly borrowing more money and adding to our debt in Connecticut.”

According to the Governor’s executive order, DOT will conduct the following:

  • Prepare a comprehensive assessment for possible electronic tolling on I-95, I-91, I-84, the Wilbur Cross Parkway, the Merritt Parkway, and any other limited access highways as determined by the DOT Commissioner, which includes potential toll monitoring and specifies proposed toll charges;
  • Explore potential ways to provide discounts, tax credits, or other value-pricing options to Connecticut residents while ensuring out-of-state drivers contribute their fair share;
  • Explore plans that could reduce motor vehicle fuel taxes; and
  • Study the environmental impacts of electronic tolling systems.

The Special State Bonding Commission is scheduled to meet at 10:30 a.m. next Wednesday, July 25th to approve funding requests submitted by Governor Malloy. As chairman of the commission, Gov. Malloy has the discretion to determine which items are included in this meeting.

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