ROSEDALE, Md. — A bill in Maryland intended to assist drivers burdened by significant toll debts has failed to advance, leaving thousands without a solution for their financial struggles.
Senate Bill 956/HB1283, which had successfully passed the Senate, encountered a roadblock in the House Environment and Transportation Committee. According to the subcommittee chair, the committee ran out of time to thoroughly assess the bill and bring it to a vote.
Many drivers have reported that what began as manageable fees have escalated into overwhelming debts, with some individuals facing balances in the tens of thousands, and in some cases, exceeding six figures. For instance, one driver, Colvin, mentioned a staggering debt of $48,521.
Kati George, whose toll debt traces back to 2021, shared her experience of accumulating over $11,000 from a single $1.40 toll. After her commuter plan was depleted, her daily toll transformed into a much higher civil penalty. She expressed her frustration, stating, "A $1.40 toll never should have accumulated into over $11,000 in unreconciled debt that I can't do anything about."
Heather Gerry's situation is even more dire, as she faces a debt exceeding $100,000. She emphasized the challenge of providing for her family under such financial strain, saying, "Like there's no way I owe over $100,000. That's just impossible."
The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) currently has limited ability to recall debts from the Central Collection Unit, only under specific circumstances, such as agency errors. Senate Bill 956 aimed to grant the MDTA more flexibility in negotiating civil penalties on delinquent accounts, although it would not have mandated reductions.
Recent data indicates that over 26,000 video toll accounts in Maryland have negative balances of $10,000 or more. The MDTA clarified that these accounts are distinct from E-ZPass accounts and are linked to unregistered video tolls.
Senator J.B. Jennings, a proponent of the bill, expressed his disappointment at the committee's decision, highlighting the frustrations faced by constituents caught in the toll debt system. He noted that the bill was intended to provide a pathway for negotiation and relief.
As it stands, the MDTA offers payment plans for customers with debts of at least $300, but those accounts already in collections are not eligible for such plans. Jennings indicated plans to reintroduce the legislation in the next session.
The MDTA has stated that customers receive multiple notices and have at least 90 days to respond before debts are referred to collections. For assistance, drivers can visit DriveEzMD.com or contact the MDTA directly.
Reported by HarborBeat based on WMAR-2 News (source).
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