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Cracking Down on Pike Hikes

By Associated Press

Oklahoma City, OK – Brogdon plans turnpike legislation

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) State Sen. Randy Brogdon says he wants to restrict the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority's ability to raise tolls.

Brogdon said Thursday he will introduce legislation next year to stop OTA from raising tolls without the consent of the people or their elected representatives.

Last week, OTA approved a 16 percent increase in tolls beginning Aug. 4. The increase will bring in about $21 million a year.

But Brogdon says raising tolls when people are struggling in tough economic times will only make things worse.

Brogdon, a candidate for the Republican nomination for governor next year, says increasing tolls will reduce travel and commerce at a time when it is needed.

The Owasso senator also says it could force truck traffic onto two lane roads ill-equipped to carry the heavier loads.

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.