Sweeping down the plains along the Turner Turnpike (and other toll roads across the state) just got more expensive as Oklahoma Turnpike Authority recently imposed a rate increase. The trip from OKC to Tulsa was raised by 90 cents starting Jan. 1.
State officials quickly pointed out that Oklahoma’s toll rates are lower than most other states. You’re getting screwed less, Oklahoma! Be grateful!
Given that many in the state Legislature take the tolls to get to the Capitol and an increase cuts into their travel reimbursement, it’s no surprise some lawmakers are looking to pass a new law limiting future hikes. State Rep. Annie Menz, a Norman Democrat, said she will push for a law requiring legislative approval for all future toll increases. “The [OTA operates] largely with a constituency of one, which is the governor,” Menz said.
No word yet on whether Gov. Kevin Stitt supports more oversight of the Turnpike Authority, but efficient roads should be considered critical to the governor’s plan to push immigrants, pregnant women, LGBTQ youth and college graduates out of the state.
This article appears in Stitt’s Top Ten.