Proposed toll transponder bill protects drivers from unfair penalties

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — A new bill introduced by Sen. Dawn Euer aims to address growing complaints from Rhode Island drivers who have been hit with fines and registration problems after their toll transponders stopped working without warning.

The legislation would require the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority to create policies for identifying failed transponders, replacing them at no cost to drivers, and providing outreach before violations escalate into major penalties.

Senator Euer said many drivers are unaware their transponder batteries have died because the batteries cannot be replaced and there is no clear notification system alerting users to the failure.

Under the proposal, RITBA would also be required to notify drivers by mail or email before unpaid toll violations are reported to the Rhode Island DMV, where they can eventually impact a person’s ability to renew a driver’s license or vehicle registration.

Current Rhode Island law allows toll violations to affect license and registration renewals when tolls, fees, or fines remain unpaid for more than 90 days and a driver has accumulated at least 10 unpaid violations.

The bill would also require the agency to establish procedures for reducing or forgiving tolls, fees, and penalties tied directly to transponder malfunctions.

According to RITBA, approximately 6,500 toll transponder batteries failed in 2025 alone, creating frustration for drivers who often do not realize there is a problem until violation notices and late fees begin arriving.