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New Hampshire Legislature Overrides Ayotte’s Toll Veto

8/21/2026

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Legislature Overrides Veto

On August 19, 2026, the New Hampshire Legislature overrode Governor Kelly Ayotte’s veto of a toll-increase bill.
The overrides set a record for the most vetoes overturned in a single session, highlighting intra-party conflict.
The House approved the override 292-25, with the Senate voting unanimously in session.
Governor Ayotte called the tolls a tax increase, noting they fund a $400 million shortfall.

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Legislature Overrides

On August 19, 2026, the New Hampshire Legislature overrode Governor Kelly Ayotte’s veto of a bill raising tolls for out-of-state drivers.
The increase doubles cash tolls for non-resident drivers, creating equity concerns because EZPass users pay unchanged rates.
Lawmakers also overrode House Bill 1422’s veto, allowing trials after three years with fresh evidence.
Advocates said the reform ends New Hampshire’s absolute three-year limit, expanding access to justice.

History

Historical Context

New Hampshire began testing automatic E-ZPass tolling in 1995, offering a 30 % discount for passenger vehicles. The state added open-road E-ZPass lanes in 2010, the first in New England, further speeding traffic across the turnpike and renewing concerns. In August 2026, the legislature overrode Governor Kelly Ayotte (292-25 House, unanimous Senate), reigniting the cash-versus-E-ZPass equity dispute.

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Legislature Overrides Veto

On August 19, 2026, the New Hampshire Legislature overrode Governor Kelly Ayotte’s veto of a toll-increase bill.
The overrides set a record for the most vetoes overturned in a single session, highlighting intra-party conflict.
The House approved the override 292-25, with the Senate voting unanimously in session.
Governor Ayotte called the tolls a tax increase, noting they fund a $400 million shortfall.

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