Puerto Rico commission evaluates toll fine cap to enhance autoexpreso system efficiency

The Commission on Transportation and Infrastructure of the Puerto Rico House of Representatives convened on March 21, 2025, to evaluate Resolution No. 72. This resolution mandates a technical and economic study on the feasibility of implementing an annual cap on fines imposed on users of the AutoExpreso system. The aim is to analyze the impact of such a cap on user behavior, system efficiency, and public finances.

The meeting featured presentations from key stakeholders, including Marco García from the Department of Transportation and Public Works (Detop) and Manuel Rodríguez from Metropistas. García emphasized the importance of the study, noting that the Autoridad de Carreteras y Transportación (ACT) supports the idea of an annual cap on fines but requires a thorough analysis to understand its potential financial implications.

García reported that the ACT has been in communication with Metropistas and the Fiscal Oversight Board to gather insights for the analysis. He indicated that while the ACT favors the cap, it is crucial to determine the appropriate limit to avoid significant revenue loss.

Rodríguez from Metropistas provided context on the operational framework of the AutoExpreso system, highlighting that fines are intended to discourage undesirable behavior among users. He stressed the need for any proposed cap to be based on comprehensive analysis to balance the protection of drivers from excessive fines while ensuring the sustainability of the toll system.

Rodríguez also noted that the AutoExpreso system operates on a prepaid basis, allowing users a grace period of up to 120 hours to recharge their accounts before incurring fines. He suggested that any cap proposal should consider mechanisms to help users maintain updated account information to prevent unnecessary penalties.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from both presenters to collaborate on finding solutions that benefit both citizens and the infrastructure of Puerto Rico. The commission plans to continue discussions and expects to receive further analysis results in the coming weeks.