Action Likely on Bill to Nix Merrimack Tolls

The bill that includes language to eliminate the ramp tolls at Exit 12 on the F. E. Everett Turnpike in Merrimack could be voted out of a House committee on April 15.

The bill, Senate Bill 367, authorizes the New Hampshire Department of Transportation shall "eliminate the northbound and southbound ramp tolls for Exit 12" in Merrimack.

The House Public Works and Highways Committee and House Ways and Means Committee will convene in a joint meeting for an executive session on the bill April 15 in Concord, according to the legislative calendar.

The legislation proposes an increase in the state's road toll, aka the state tax on gasoline sales, and dedicating the revenue toward priority transportation improvements. A 4-cent increase in the existing gas tax rate of 18 cents per gallon would generate about $33 million for Fiscal Year 2015, according to the bill.

The "road toll" increase, which would be adjusted based on the consumer price index, would be repealed upon completion of the bonding for the widening of Interstate 93 project.

The joint committee meeting is scheduled for 1 p.m. in Rooms 210-211 at the Legislative Office Building on April 15. Read the bill.