February 26, 2007

Addison, IL … Suburban Republican lawmakers today introduced legislation to prohibit the sale of the Illinois Tollway. Sponsor of the bill, State Representative Dennis Reboletti (R-Addison) said that state assets should not be sold for large-one time payments to offset rampant state spending.

“Over the past four years, state spending has increased by more than 4 billion dollars. Rather than sell off a valuable state asset, the General Assembly and the governor need to stop spending money the state does not have,” said Reboletti. “I-355 and the TriState (I-294) run right thru my district and are main transportation thoroughfares for my constituents. Selling the Tollway to a private firm would lead to higher tolls. Why should my constituents have to pay higher tolls because state officials can’t control their spending?”

State Representative Brent Hassert (R-Romeoville) said selling the Tollway could hurt future expansion projects and result in more roadways in need of repair.

“The state would lose its ability to determine how the Tollway should grow in the future. As the population continues to spread further and further out, the need for expansion is undeniable and the state must have the authority to make those decisions,” said Hassert. “Our toll roads are well maintained. My fear is that a private entity would be more concerned about making a profit than making sure the roads are in good condition and safe for motorists.”

State Representative Franco Coladipietro (R-Bloomingdale) said he is concerned about the impact selling the tollway would have on local businesses in the area.

“Higher tolls means added expense to area businesses which could lead to a loss of jobs in the region and higher prices for area consumers,” said Coladipietro. “I am also concerned about how current Tollway employees would be treated under a private entity.”

House Bill 2038 removes the power of the Toll Highway Authority, the Governor, or any officer or employee of the Executive Branch of Government from being able to sell, convey, lease, transfer, or otherwise dispose of any Tollway asset with a fair market value of $1 million.

“Selling the tollway is another short-sighted reaction to a long-term budget deficit that will have a negative impact on future generations,” said State Representative Jim Meyer (R-Bolingbrook).

The Tollway encompasses a 274 mile system including I-355 (North-South), I-88 (Reagan Memorial), I-90 (Northwest) & the TriState (I-94, I-294 & I-80/I-294).

For more information contact Dennis Reboletti at (630) 530-2730.