The bill, HB 5777, repeals the act authorizing toll facilities on state roads and amends the General Laws related to the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority and the Department of Transportation. Key provisions include the establishment of a new framework for toll collection specifically targeting large commercial trucks, while explicitly prohibiting tolls on passenger vehicles. The bill creates a special fund for bridge replacement, reconstruction, and maintenance, known as the Rhode Island bridge replacement, reconstruction, and maintenance fund.

The Department of Transportation is authorized to fix, revise, charge, and collect tolls for large commercial trucks only, with the tolls to be set after conducting a cost-benefit analysis and providing an opportunity for public comment. The bill also includes provisions for penalties for nonpayment of tolls and establishes reporting requirements for the Department of Transportation, mandating quarterly reports to the office of management and budget and fiscal advisors on significant contracts and project progress.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that all revenue collected from tolls will be used for the operation and maintenance of toll facilities and the replacement, reconstruction, and maintenance of Rhode Island bridges. It also includes a severability clause, ensuring that if any part of the chapter is held unconstitutional or invalid, the remaining provisions will remain in effect.

The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5777: 24-12-9, 42-13-2