5/27/04-Gov. Sonny Perdue signed legislation – SB489 – May 19 authorizing state transportation officials to create high-occupancy toll lanes.
The new law sets the stage for motorists who drive solo to pay a fee to use high-occupancy vehicle lanes.
The state plans to spend as much as $400,000 this year to determine whether the lanes can accommodate paid traffic. It also would evaluate ways to separate and monitor the lanes.
The lanes are thought to smooth traffic by charging fluctuating rates depending on congestion levels.

4/8/04-The Senate gave final approval to a bill that would allow state transportation officials to create high-occupancy toll lanes.
Senators passed the proposal by a 38-0 vote April 7. The House previously passed the bill that would permit drivers who drive solo to pay a fee to use high-occupancy vehicle lanes. SB489, sponsored by Sen. Jeff Mullis, R-Chickamauga, now heads to Gov. Sonny Perdue for final approval.
The state plans to spend as much as $400,000 this year to determine whether the lanes can accommodate paid traffic. It also would evaluate ways to separate and monitor the lanes.
The lanes are thought to smooth traffic by charging fluctuating rates depending on congestion levels.
For bill status, call (404) 656-5040.