Senate lawmakers have given their approval to legislation that would create tolls along some roads and bridges in Mississippi. The proposal is intended to give the state another tool to raise revenue during a tight budget year.

The bill, introduced by Sen. Charlie Ross, R-Brandon, authorizes the Mississippi Transportation Commission, county boards of supervisors and governing boards of municipalities to contract with private industry in the state to construct toll roads and bridges and collect the toll to pay off the investment.

Central District Transportation Commissioner Dick Hall, a bill supporter, told The Clarion-Ledger he expected criticism. Some Mississippians think they pay enough in taxes for roads and bridges, he said.

But Hall said tolls would be a good way to raise revenue for road and bridge improvements where budgets are lean.

The bill doesn’t spell out specific toll charges. That would be determined by MDOT.

It requires that alternative routes be available so drivers can avoid paying the tolls, the newspaper reported. Once the bonds for the project are paid off, the toll would be removed.

SB2063 has been forwarded to the House for consideration.