This bill amends RSA 228:12-a to allow the use of toll credits as a match for federal highway funds for municipal, county, and non-profit projects, provided these projects are eligible for assistance under Title 23 and permitted by the federal government. The new legal language specifies that these entities can utilize toll credits without requiring approval from the Department of Transportation or the legislature. However, any other use of toll credits will still necessitate approval from the joint legislative capital project overview committee before advancing in the state’s 10-year transportation improvement program.

The fiscal impact of this bill is indeterminable, as it could lead to a reduction in the turnpike toll credit balance by approximately $20 million annually, which would be offset by an increased use of federal funds. This shift means that while municipalities and counties could benefit from utilizing toll credits, it may also reduce the availability of federal funds for other projects, potentially impacting future funding for both municipal and state federally funded initiatives.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 228:12-a