Turnpike workers cruise toll free

BOSTON (AP) - Hundreds of current and retired Massachusetts Turnpike Authority workers pass through the toll road without paying even as the agency struggles under growing debt.

The Boston Herald reported Thursday that 849 of 1,300 Turnpike employees and 232 retired workers have been given special Fast Lane transponders as a perk.

Board member Mary Connaughton says it's unfair for people to ride toll free as taxpayers brace for a 25 percent sales tax hike to help the agency pay off its debt.

Spokesman Adam Hurtubise says the Turnpike is reviewing the practice as it prepares for integration into a new Massachusetts Department of Transportation on Nov. 1.

Last month, Gov. Deval Patrick signed a bill to eliminate the Turnpike authority and consolidate nearly all other state transportation functions under the department.