Burchett Bill would assure that any toll roads in Tennessee would be American-owned

(NASHVILLE, TN) – If Tennessee approves the use of toll roads in the state, they would have to be “American-owned” under legislation sponsored by Senator Tim Burchett (R-Knoxville) and approved by the Senate Transportation Committee today.  Burchett, who opposes toll roads in the state, said the measure would emulate Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules that require radio stations to be American-owned to prevent foreign interference in cases of national emergency.

“This is simply a safety concern,” said Burchett.  “I do not favor toll roads in Tennessee, but if they are approved then we must take the proper steps to make sure they are in the hands of American-owned companies.”

The bill, SB 2724, requires that any contract, understanding, or agreement entered into for the operation of a tollway or toll facility be made with a U.S. citizen or with a business entity in which more than 50 percent of the equity is owned by U.S. citizens.  The legislation now heads to the full Senate for final approval.  It is still pending action in the House of Representatives.

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