Rhode IslandH85862026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

AN ACT RELATING TO HIGHWAYS -- RHODE ISLAND TURNPIKE AND BRIDGE AUTHORITY .

Sponsored By: Anthony J. DeSimone (Democratic)

Became Law

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4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 2 mixed.

Tough penalties for repeat toll evaders

The law defines a toll evader as someone who goes around a gate to avoid paying, or someone with 20 or more unpaid tolls, 3 or more written notices, and no current repayment plan. Toll evaders owe the unpaid tolls and fees and can be cited in the Traffic Tribunal. The Tribunal can suspend a driver's license for up to 6 months and fine up to $500. If you have at least 10 nonpayments and still owe money 90 days after a violation, the DMV blocks license and registration renewal until you pay or enter a written repayment plan. These enforcement rules apply to people who were toll evaders as of October 1, 2016.

Pay tolls in 14 days or fees

You must pay a toll violation within 14 days. If you miss the deadline, the Authority adds a $40 administrative fee for that violation. If it is still unpaid 45 days after the violation, another $35 is added. All amounts are payable to the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority.

Renters pay tolls on rental cars

Rental companies can avoid liability for toll violations by giving the Traffic Tribunal a copy of the rental or lease agreement. That agreement is treated as proof the renter was the driver. After the owner gets notice of a violation, the owner must provide the renter’s contact details within 20 days. A renter or lessee is not considered the owner’s agent. When the company complies, the renter is responsible for the tolls, fees, and fines.

Rules on transponders and fee disputes

It is illegal to sell, lease, or rent toll transponders, tokens, tickets, or passes unless authorized. Violators can be fined up to $500 per offense. The Authority sets rules to run toll enforcement and offers an internal review process if you dispute administrative fees. That internal review is outside the state’s usual chapter 35 process.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Anthony J. DeSimone
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Arthur J. Corvese
Democratic • House
Katherine S. Kazarian
Democratic • House
Carol Hagan McEntee
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 69 • No: 1

House vote • 6/9/2026

RI TURNPIKE AND BRIDGE AUTHORITY PASSAGE