http://www.star-telegram.com/2014/04/30/5779337/transportation-dept-asks-congress.htmlTransportation Secretary Anthony Foxx reported Tuesday that the Highway Trust Fund is set to run out of cash in August, a scenario that would heavily damage the thirty-one states who currently rely on Federal funding for a large percentage of their highway and bridge improvements. As such Foxx has proposed Congress end the ban of tolls on Federally funded highways, such as the U.S Interstate Highway system.
Supporters of toll roadways are already lining up in support with Pat Jones, Executive Director of the International Bridge Tunnel and Turnpike Association, noted that thirty-five states (and multiple countries) already use toll roads and crossings as a "proven and effective option" for infrastructure improvements.
The U.S Chamber of Commerce, led by Tom Donahue, and the American Trucking Associations led by former Kansas Governor and Secretary of State Bill Graves, who support increases Federal taxes on diesel fuel and gasoline. Graves came out with a statement calling the plan being offered "disappointing", and claiming that "The focus must be on real long-term funding answers rather than repeatedly looking for the proverbial nickles in the couch cushions"
