PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island — Bills that would stop a planned toll on the Sakonnet River Bridge did not make it into the budget approved by the House Finance Committee, but opponents say they're not giving up.
The committee approved the budget plan Tuesday.
The Newport Daily news reports the plan did not include a proposal to prohibit a toll, and instead set up a bridge maintenance fund paid for by increasing the vehicle inspection fee for drivers statewide from $39 to $65.
Bill sponsor Sen. Louis DiPalma, who represents Middletown, says the bill is still in play. He says he expects to meet with legislative leaders this week about it.
DiPalma and Tiverton Rep. John Edwards, who sponsored the House bill, say they are willing to negotiate the details but are determined to fight.
