TAMPA, Fla. — If you're a frequent traveler on Tampa Bay-area toll roads, there’s some potentially good news coming your way.
State lawmakers are poised to approve a one-year extension on a rebate program that could save you up to 50% on tolls each month. The extension of the rebate program is a priority for Gov. Ron DeSantis and is likely to be passed as part of the 2024 budget.
Commuters like Risty Birchall, who spend a lot of time on the Veterans and Selmon expressways, as well as bridges and causeways, are glad to hear they can expect to keep on saving up to 50% on tolls for another year.
“I mean, I get the discount every month,” Birchall said. “Because I use it coming and going from each day.”
The toll rebate program has been a big hit, benefiting more than 1.1 million drivers, according to the governor's office. In some cases, they say it saves those who qualify up to $100 a month.
To be eligible, you have to use one of those Florida-based transponders, like E-ZPass or SunPass, and log at least 35 toll road transactions during a single month. Only two-axle vehicles are allowed, so mostly cars and light trucks. Not big commercial vehicles and no motorcycles, either.
The legislature plans to set aside $450 million to then reimburse toll road authorities.
Rebates are reflected on the following month's bill.
It’s a welcomed bit of roadway relief say commuters like Leslie Monkarsh, “Because I like to save money. I spend easily over $50 — or $25 a month.”
Proponents of the toll rebate program say they like it because it most likely benefits local working-class people who could use some relief from higher fuel prices and insurance costs.