MEASURE TO PROVIDE “FAIRER FARES” INTRODUCED

Senator Hill sponsors bill to reduce Maine Turnpike commuter tolls

AUGUSTA—Senator Dawn Hill (D-York) is sponsoring a measure to reduce commuter tolls on the Maine Turnpike.

“Despite the Maine Turnpike Authority (MTA) having held public hearings up and down the turnpike corridor last year, it appears the meetings were merely a frivolity,” said Senator Hill. “MTA dismissed what Maine residents shared about problems with highway fees and solutions that would result in fairer fares, and instead resorted back to what’s best for them and their bond holders.”

The measure requires that commuter tolls be based on the number of miles traveled, and that reduced commuter rates do not exceed 50% of the normal passenger vehicle toll.

The current EZ pass rates are not equitable. A commuter traveling from Falmouth to York is charged $3.40 at a rate of 7.5 cents per mile. If the commuter were to exit and reenter the turnpike at Wells, the commuter would pay a total of $1.90 for traveling the same distance, a savings of $1.50.

“Drivers shouldn’t have to play math games to save money on their commutes,” said Senator Hill.

Additionally, different rates are charged for northbound and southbound traffic. A commuter driving from Wells to West Gardiner is charged $5, while driving the same route from West Gardiner to Wells costs only $3.50.

The bill would also require the Maine Turnpike Authority to submit proposed revisions to toll costs to the Legislature’s Transportation Committee, and allow the committee to submit legislation to authorize, reject, or modify the proposed toll revisions.

“The MTA should not have sole authority to set fees,” said Senator Hill. “Maine’s legislators, who are a voice for the people, should weigh in and ensure tolls fees are in fact fair.”

The Transportation Committee will hold a public hearing on the measure, LD 1382 “An Act To Provide Toll Discounts to Maine Commuters on the Maine Turnpike,” on Wednesday, April 24, at 1:00 p.m. in room 126 of the State House.

Senator Hill encourages all commuters and turnpike users affected to attend the public hearing, and contact the Transportation Committee members.

###