Bucks Co. Lawmakers Push For Commuter Tolls Relief

YARDLEY, PA — Lawmakers in Bucks County are pushing for a new law that would give commuters, including those who drive back and forth into New Jersey, a break on tolls.

On Friday, state Sen. Steve Santarsiero and state Rep. Perry Warren held a press conference near the Scudder Falls Bridge interchange in Lower Makefield. They're pushing their bills in both the House and Senate that would give a tax credit of up to $500 for toll-related expenses.

The Bucks County Democrats say the bills are aimed at helping out Pennsylvania-based drivers and businesses whose tolls are used to build roads and bridges across the state.

Senate Bill 451 and House Bill 329 would provide a tax credit to cover half of a taxpayer's toll-related spending each year, up to $500. Tolls incurred while traveling on the Pennsylvania Turnpike and the toll bridges operated by the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission would be eligible for the credit.

Tolls on the new span of the Scudder Falls Bridge connecting New Jersey and Pennsylvania began on Sunday.

"Commuters, families, and businesses across southeastern Pennsylvania, who regularly pay tolls to maintain our roads and bridges, deserve the tax relief outlined in SB 451. With this tax credit, local commerce can thrive and expand," Santarsiero said on Friday.

Warren's bill in the House mirrors that of Santarsiero's in the Senate.

"This legislation will reduce the cost of commuting, reduce business costs, and will spur economic development," he said. "Through a commuter tax credit, we are looking to benefit our community and build our economy."

The full press conference can be viewed here. Click the links provided to view SB 451 and HB 329.