Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has firmly rejected the idea of tolls at state borders proposed by the state’s transportation department secretary, Monica Tibbits-Nutt. Healey stated that Tibbits-Nutt’s comments do not represent her administration and that border tolls are not being considered.
Tibbits-Nutt had suggested border tolls as a potential solution to financial challenges faced by MassDOT during an advocacy group event. However, Healey has made it clear that this is not an option for her administration.
Healey emphasized that her priorities are making Massachusetts more affordable and uniting people to achieve goals. She expressed confidence in Tibbits-Nutt’s leadership but stressed that border tolls are not on the agenda.
Tibbits-Nutt’s initial proposal drew criticism from New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu and State Auditor Diana DiZoglio, who highlighted the negative economic and infrastructure impacts border tolls could have. A MassDOT spokesperson stated that the transportation department is exploring various funding options, but no decisions have been made yet. Any proposals will be developed in collaboration with the Legislature and will carefully consider affordability and competitiveness implications.
