CONCORD, N.H. — The New Hampshire Senate voted Thursday to increase tolls for drivers with out-of-state license plates, a move proponents say is necessary to fund critical infrastructure improvements while protecting Granite State residents from additional costs. The bill, Senate Bill 627, passed on a voice vote, but not without opposition, and now heads to the House for consideration. The debate centers on how to address a $400 million shortfall in highway projects identified in a recently completed 10-year plan.
The proposed toll increases would add $1 to the cost for vehicles with out-of-state plates traveling through the Hooksett, Hampton, and Bedford toll plazas on the turnpike. A 75-cent increase is planned for those using Hampton’s Exit 2 and the Spaulding Turnpike in Rochester, while a 50-cent hike would apply to the exit off I-93 to Hooksett. The legislation aims to generate an additional $53.3 million in revenue in fiscal year 2027, increasing to $81.4 million annually by 2036, according to an analysis of the bill.
Infrastructure Funding and Resident Protection
Senator Mark E. McConkey, R-Freedom, championed the bill, arguing it’s a way to address escalating operational costs and fund necessary improvements to the turnpike system without burdening New Hampshire drivers. “We are getting the best of all worlds,” McConkey stated, emphasizing the bill’s focus on “protecting our residents” and securing resources for turnpike upgrades. He noted that the last systemwide increase to the turnpike toll occurred 19 years ago. The state operates the turnpike as an enterprise fund, meaning it can only spend the revenue it generates.
The demand for increased funding stems from the completion of a 10-year highway plan that revealed a significant funding gap. Without additional revenue, a substantial number of planned projects would remain unfunded. The bill’s proponents believe targeting out-of-state drivers is a fair solution, as these drivers benefit from the use of New Hampshire’s roadways but do not contribute to the state’s transportation funding through vehicle registration fees.
Concerns Raised About Border Businesses
Despite the voice vote approval, the bill faced scrutiny from some senators. Senator William Gannon, R-Sandown, questioned whether the toll increases could negatively impact businesses located near the state border. He asked Senator McConkey if any studies had been conducted to assess the potential economic consequences for these businesses. The concern is that higher tolls could discourage out-of-state visitors from shopping or dining in New Hampshire, potentially harming local economies.
Two Republicans, Senators Regina Birdsell of Hampstead and William Gannon of Sandown, formally opposed the bill. Their opposition highlights a division within the Republican party regarding the best approach to address the state’s infrastructure needs.
Governor Ayotte’s Opposition and House Consideration
The bill’s future remains uncertain, as Republican Governor Kelly Ayotte has publicly stated her opposition to increasing highway toll rates across the state. In late January, Ayotte reportedly told reporters she was “not in favor of any kind of toll increase.” WMUR reported on this stance earlier this week.
The legislation now moves to the House for consideration, where it is expected to face a more difficult path. Key House Republicans have already expressed skepticism about the proposal. The House will need to weigh the potential benefits of increased revenue against the concerns raised about the impact on border businesses and the governor’s opposition.
The bill’s passage in the Senate represents a significant step in the debate over how to fund New Hampshire’s transportation infrastructure. The proposed toll increases for out-of-state drivers are presented as a targeted solution to address a critical funding shortfall, but the ultimate fate of the bill will depend on the House’s decision and the governor’s willingness to compromise.
The debate over New Hampshire turnpike tolls highlights a broader discussion about infrastructure funding and the balance between protecting residents and attracting visitors. The outcome of this legislation could have lasting implications for the state’s transportation system and economy.
The next step in the process is for the House to take up Senate Bill 627 and schedule a hearing. Dates for House committee hearings are typically posted on the New Hampshire General Court website. Residents interested in following the bill’s progress or submitting testimony can find more information there.
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