2/9/05-A bill that would create tolls along some roads and bridges in the state has died.
SB2462, sponsored by Sen. Charlie Ross, R-Brandon, failed to be reported out of the Senate Highways and Transportation and Finance committees prior to the Feb. 1 deadline for House and Senate panels to report out bills and constitutional amendments originating in their chambers.
The bill authorized the Mississippi Transportation Commission, county boards of supervisors and city officials to contract with private industry to construct roads and bridges and collect tolls to pay off the work.
Ross’ bill didn’t spell out specific toll charges. That would be determined by MDOT.
The proposal required 20 percent of a county’s electorate or 1,500 voters, whichever is less, to call for a referendum on any project.
It also mandated that alternative routes be available so drivers can avoid paying the tolls.
A similar House bill – HB283 – met the same fate.

1/24/05-Sen. Charlie Ross, R-Brandon, has introduced a bill that would create tolls along some roads and bridges in the state to give the state another tool to raise revenue during a tight budget year.
SB2462 authorizes the Mississippi Transportation Commission, county boards of supervisors and city officials to contract with private industry to construct roads and bridges and collect tolls to pay off the work.
The bill doesn’t spell out specific toll charges. That would be determined by MDOT.
The proposal requires 20 percent of a county’s electorate or 1,500 voters, whichever is less, to call for a referendum on any project.
It also mandates that alternative routes be available so drivers can avoid paying the tolls. Once the bonds for the project are paid off, the toll would be removed.
The bill is in the Senate Highways and Transportation and Finance committees. For bill status, call (601) 359-3719.
A similar bill – HB283 – is in the House Transportation and Ways and Means committees.