South Carolina lawmakers are considering a sweeping new transportation bill that could bring toll lanes, also called “choice lanes,” to our highways for the first time in decades. But these changes are moving forward without meaningful public input.

We believe that before a single toll lane is built in our state, the people of South Carolina deserve the right to vote.

Under the current proposal, the Department of Transportation would be allowed to add toll lanes to newly constructed stretches of interstate while keeping existing lanes free. While some say drivers can simply “choose” to pay for faster travel, the reality is more complicated and more costly. Once toll systems are installed, they rarely go away.

Toll roads impact everyone, especially working-class residents who cannot afford to “pay their way out of traffic.” Without public oversight, these policies risk creating a two-tiered road system where wealthier drivers skip congestion while others are stuck behind.

These toll lanes are being proposed at a time when the cost of living is already rising. Gas taxes are unlikely to increase, and past attempts to raise local sales taxes for transportation have failed. But instead of offering voters a chance to weigh in, this bill leaves the decisions to agencies and lawmakers behind closed doors.

We are not asking lawmakers to reject every new idea. We are asking for transparency and trust. Voters should have a direct say in whether South Carolina becomes a toll-heavy state.

Put toll lane approval on the ballot. Let the people decide.

Sign this petition to demand that any tolling proposals in South Carolina be subject to a statewide referendum. It is our money, our roads, and our future. We should have a vote in it.