ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — Panels of lawmakers in the Maryland House and Senate are expected to hear testimony on several bills designed to alter how the state levies fees to support transportation infrastructure and operation.

Largely sponsored by Republicans who have railed against recent toll hikes and a state-wide growth plan, the bills will be heard before the Senate Finance and House Ways and Means Committees Wednesday.

GOP leaders have said the Maryland’s policies on tolls and development unfairly target rural parts of the state.

Several bills would prohibit the state transportation authority from making changes to toll rates on roads, bridges and tunnels without the approval of the General Assembly.

Other measures would increase the amount the state collects from fares on buses, light rail, subway and commuter trains.

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