Senate Bill 61 would prohibit tolls on Interstate 95 in North Carolina for 10 years and then, after that period, require the General Assembly’s prior approval before any tolls could be imposed on I-95. The bill amends the state law governing the North Carolina Turnpike Authority’s power to toll existing interstate highways by carving out Interstate 95 from the general tolling authority.
Under the bill, the Authority could continue to toll other existing interstate highways where federal permission is obtained, and toll revenues would still have to be used to repair and maintain the tolled interstate itself rather than nearby state roads. The bill’s I-95-specific restriction would take effect immediately, while the broader change requiring legislative approval for any future I-95 tolling would not become effective until July 1, 2035.
Impact
The bill would directly amend G.S. 136-89.198, the statute governing the North Carolina Turnpike Authority’s authority to toll existing interstate highways. It creates a special rule for Interstate 95 by barring tolls on that corridor for a decade and then conditioning any later tolling on express approval from the General Assembly. The measure would not eliminate tolling authority for other interstates, but it would narrow the Authority’s discretion and add a legislative check specific to I-95.
Sentiment
Based on the bill title and structure, the measure appears to reflect a protective or restrictive stance toward tolling on I-95, likely aimed at preserving a major travel corridor from new user fees. No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of debate, amendments, or formal support/opposition in the available materials. The bill’s framing suggests a generally favorable posture toward motorists and communities along I-95, with skepticism toward tolling that route.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely whether I-95 should be exempt from the state’s broader tolling policy. Supporters would likely argue that tolls on a major interstate would burden travelers, freight movement, and eastern North Carolina communities, while opponents may argue that tolling could provide a dedicated funding source for maintenance and improvements. A second issue is the bill’s delayed effective date for the legislative-approval requirement in 2035, which could be viewed either as a compromise or as uncertainty about the long-term tolling framework. No specific stakeholder testimony is included in the record provided.
Proposes a constitutional amendment to authorize the highways and transportation commission to construct toll roads and impose and collect tolls on interstates and four-land roadways