Md. Republicans Oppose Transportation Scoring System Plan

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Maryland Republicans are opposing a measure that would create a scoring system to prioritize transportation projects.

House Republicans criticized the plan Tuesday. They say it would erode local officials' input on transportation funding.

Republican Del. Nic Kipke, the House minority leader, says spending on mass transit has outpaced spending on highways and bridges for too long.

Democrats say the scoring system is designed to prioritize projects with strong benefits. The proposal is part of a reaction to Republican Gov. Larry Hogan's decision not to move forward with funding a light rail plan in Baltimore and shifting money to roads and bridges. The measure wouldn't stop the governor from financing projects that don't score highly, but it would require an explanation for not following the scoring system.

(Copyright 2016 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)