Lawmakers to vote on truck toll bill as opposition continues

By The Associated Press

news@abc6.com

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) _ A bill to toll big-rig trucks traveling Rhode Island highways is moving toward important votes in the state’s General Assembly despite some opposition.

Ocean State Job Lot executives on Saturday announced the company is putting on hold plans to build a distribution center in Rhode Island because of the toll proposal.

Democratic House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello says Ocean State Job Lot has received many benefits from the state and will benefit from improved roads and bridges.

Truckers oppose Democratic Gov. Gina Raimondo’s plan for 14 truck-only tolls to help finance bridge repairs. Construction unions support it.

Finance committees in the Senate and House are scheduled to vote on the legislation Tuesday.

The legislation could go to a full vote in both chambers this week if it passes both committees.

© The Associated Press WLNE-TV  2016