CONCORD, N.H.- A bill that would double turnpike toll rates for non-New Hampshire E-ZPass users saw a strong show of support in its first public hearing.

On Tuesday the House Public Works and Highways Committee heard from experts in the construction, engineering and commuter bus fields all of whom showed strong support for SB 627, which recently passed the Senate as a way for the state to raise an estimated $53 million a year for turnpike improvements.

If approved the bill would result in the first turnpike system-wide toll increase in 19 years. However its exact fate remains unknown as Governor Kelly Ayotte has gone on the record in opposition of the bill, and House GOP leaders have yet to offer their officials position on the matter.