Committee considers bill to end Turnpike tolls after bonds are paid
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Summary
Lawmakers reviewed Engrossed House Bill 4421, which would require the Parkways Authority to discontinue tolls and remove toll facilities within 90 days after final payment of all bonds; members sought clarification of bond authority and maturities.
The Senate Transportation Infrastructure Committee reviewed Engrossed House Bill 4421 on March 4, 2026. Counsel explained the bill would create a new section in the Parkways chapter requiring that when Parkway bonds (and interest) have been paid or a sufficient trust balance is set aside for bondholders, affected projects transfer to the Division of Highways and toll collections on the West Virginia Turnpike must stop within 90 days, with toll facilities removed.
Counsel noted the House sent the bill without a fiscal note and that the bill carries a second committee reference to Finance. Senator from Wetzel asked whether the Parkways Authority can issue bonds without legislative approval; Chuck Smith, the authority’s executive director, testified that bond counsel advised the authority may issue bonds and confirmed that the roads‑to‑prosperity bonds mature in 2052.
Committee members had no additional questions of counsel and the committee recorded the bill’s second reference to the Committee on Finance for further review of fiscal implications.