HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - Protesters have gathered outside the state Capitol to rally against a proposal to put electronic tolls on the state's highways.
Demonstrators on Saturday called the plan another tax increase state residents can't afford. They held "no tolls'' signs and wore ``no tolls'' shirts as they criticized Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont's plan to raise money for highway improvements.
A Democratic-controlled legislative committee last week approved a tolling bill on a partisan vote of 30-20. Details are still being negotiated over the final number of tolling gantries, their location and discounts for state residents.
Republicans have countered with a plan for an additional $375 million in bonding annually over the next five years for transportation needs.
Lamont defended the tolls plan Saturday and said the Republican proposal includes excessive borrowing.
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