This bill establishes a highway tolling program in Wyoming, empowering the Wyoming Transportation Commission to impose tolls on interstates and state highways. It creates a special toll revenue account for all toll revenues and bond proceeds, which can only be used for project-related expenses such as debt repayment and maintenance. The bill mandates the development of a project master plan that includes goals, project descriptions, tolling approaches, and financial plans, requiring approval from both the commission and the legislature before implementation. The commission is granted various powers, including the ability to issue revenue bonds, set toll rates, and oversee the tolling program, with an emphasis on legislative oversight and public interest.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws regarding the issuance and management of project revenue bonds, clarifying that these bonds will be secured solely by pledged revenues and will not be considered general obligations of the state. It exempts the commission from municipal taxes and designates the bonds as legal investments for financial entities. The bill also creates a state highway fund, detailing revenue sources, and stipulates that 75% of any bond issue for highway construction will be allocated to counties based on assessed valuations. The act is set to take effect immediately upon completion of the necessary legislative processes.

Statutes affected:
26LSO-0108 v0.8: 24-1-119, 24-8-101