A pair of Pennsylvania senators is looking to tighten up penalties for repeat toll evaders on the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
A pair of Pennsylvania senators is looking to tighten up penalties for repeat toll evaders on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Senators Kim Ward and Judy Ward announced legislation that would target individuals who accumulate thousands of dollars in unpaid tolls "at the expense of taxpayers and responsible drivers.
" “The Pennsylvania Turnpike is a critical part of our Commonwealth’s transportation infrastructure system, and the revenue generated through the automation of toll services is one way to maintain it,” said Kim Ward. “While the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission collects more than 90% of its tolls, recent data shows that more than $200 million went unpaid, which means taxpayers are footing the bill. This legislation aims to crack down on egregious offenders that racket up thousands in unpaid tolls to ensure that honest toll payers and taxpayers are not burdened with the fiduciary responsibility for frequent toll evaders.” The proposal would create a three-tier penalty structure that would discourage chronic offenders while continuing to use the state's nearly 600-mile toll road network. “The Pennsylvania Turnpike is one of our Commonwealth’s most important transportation assets, but persistent toll evasion undermines its financial stability and shifts costs onto law-abiding motorists,” said Judy Ward. “This legislation equips the Turnpike Commission with modern enforcement tools to hold repeat offenders accountable and recover millions in unpaid tolls.” According to a news release, the legislation would establish a criminal trespassing offense for drivers who travel on the turnpike while under active suspension for unpaid toll violations. In addition, repeat offenders would be subject to a theft of toll road services charge and a third-degree serious fare evasion charge for individuals with more than $10,000 in unpaid tolls.However, lawmakers said repeat violators continue to exploit the system, targeting electronic tolling and open road toll operations, which have resulted in more than $200 million in uncollected tolls. The bill would require the turnpike commission to submit an annual report that details trends in toll enforcement, collection efforts, and the number of vehicles hit with extra enforcement actions due to failed toll payments. Additionally, the legislation aims to improve invoice delivery and communication methods, including expanded use of email and expedited mail services. This would ensure drivers reserve toll obligation notices promptly.Pennsylvania lawmakers have tried to eliminate property taxes in the past and the new push to eliminate them has begun, with a new bill proposing a tax increaseA Dover man at the helm of a $3 million bank fraud scheme in central Pennsylvania learned his fate this week.A man listed as 'most wanted' for eight warrants out of Perry, York, and Adams counties was arrested in Hanover on March 12, police confirmed.Deputies with theWell-known Franklin County festival coming to an end after 102 years "To all of you who have been faithful and regular supporters of the festival over these many years, we say THANK YOU," the festival wrote.
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