A Hawaii House panel deferred action on a proposal that would authorize tolling all drivers. The bill is likely dead for the year.

The House Finance Committee voted down the measure Feb. 9

HB1718, which would have allowed the state to charge tolls on existing highways or on newly constructed toll roads. The House Transportation Committee could pick it up later, but it is likely dead for the year.

Rep. Joe Souki, D-District 8, has introduced a bill that would authorize the state Transportation Department to collect tolls for road repairs and to construct new toll roads. HB1718 provides for an agreement with private companies to build more lanes on congested highways then recoup their investment by charging drivers tolls.

The bill proposes a feasibility study prior to establishing any toll system.