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HD 3943

An Act to remove tolls

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by David DeCoste and 1 co-sponsor

Bill eliminates all Massachusetts highway tolls, removing hundreds of millions in annual transportation revenue without specifying replacement funding sources.

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Bill Summary · HD 3943

Legislative bill overview

HD 3943 proposes to eliminate toll collection on Massachusetts roadways, effectively removing all tolled highways from the state's toll system. The bill would eliminate revenue currently generated through toll collection, which funds highway maintenance and improvements through the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT).

Why is this important

Toll removal would directly reduce transportation costs for commuters and commercial trucking operations, potentially lowering prices for goods and services. However, it would create a significant funding gap for highway maintenance and infrastructure projects that currently depend on toll revenue, estimated at hundreds of millions of dollars annually, forcing the state to find alternative funding sources or reduce maintenance spending.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism: The bill does not specify how the estimated $500+ million in annual toll revenue would be replaced, raising questions about whether highways would be adequately maintained or if taxes would need to increase elsewhere
  • Regional equity: Tolled highways primarily affect interstate commuters and commercial traffic; removal may shift burden to general taxpayers who don't use these roads, while some regions benefit disproportionately
  • Debt obligations: Massachusetts has issued bonds backed by toll revenue; eliminating tolls could create legal and financial complications regarding existing debt service

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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