6/28/05-Gov. Rick Perry has signed a bill into law that allows local communities in Texas to assist in the financing of turnpike projects through tolls.
In return for footing some of the expense, the new law allows cities and counties to keep a percentage of tolls collected. The money must go for transportation projects but not necessarily the toll road that generates the revenue.
Senators voted 31-0 May 25 in favor of the bill – HB2650 – which passed the House 85-54 in April.
This effort is in response to a 300-plus-page measure approved by legislators in 2003 that radically changed Texas code by giving the state Transportation Department powers to build toll roads or convert free roads into “pay-to-play” roads.

6/2/05-The Senate voted 31-0 May 25 to advance a bill that would allow local communities in the state to assist in the financing of turnpike projects.
In return for footing some of the expense, the bill – HB2650 – would let cities and counties keep a percentage of tolls collected. The money must go for transportation projects but not necessarily the toll road that generates the revenue.
The bill, which passed the House 85-54 in April, now moves to Gov. Rick Perry for his signature.
This effort is in response to a 300-plus-page measure approved by legislators in 2003 that radically changed Texas code by giving the state Transportation Department powers to build toll roads or convert free roads into “pay-to-play” roads.
For bill status, call (512) 463-2182. In Texas, call 1-877-824-7038.