| As state governments struggle to meet growing transportation infrastructure needs while revenues dwindle, leveraging existing resources through the use of has become increasingly attractive. Twenty-nine states and Puerto Rico have legislated an authorization framework for transportation , and more than $46 billion has been invested in these projects over the last 20 years. The trend grew in 2010 as 21 states and the District of Columbia considered 52 legislative measures concerning transportation . With the growing interest in , the debate over their use has become somewhat polarized and reasoned voices have been harder to discern. This toolkit, produced by the Partners Project on for Transportation, provides expert guidance, dependable counsel and a compilation of best practices to assist state legislatures as they consider whether and how to pursue in their states. Solid, balanced and comprehensive state enabling legislation is the key to thorough consideration and success of projects, while protecting the public interest. The centerpiece of the toolkit is nine principles that promote a sound public policy approach to the consideration of . As well, the appendices have a wealth of specific state legislative information and detailed instruction on issues. "This toolkit is an excellent resource for states about to embark on a program, as well as those states that already are building a program. I consider it required reading for legislators and policymakers who want to do it right." Representative Rick Geist, Pennsylvania "This report will provide lawmakers with a solid foundation for vetting the potential benefits and drawbacks associated with ." Governor Bill Graves President and CEO, American Trucking Associations Inc. "[W]e've learned from international experience… that they are complex arrangements that need to be implemented with proper due diligence and attention to best practices, making the toolkit a valuable and critical policy resource for state lawmakers as they continue to explore and seek ways to close the transportation funding gap." Leonard Gilroy Director of Government Reform, Reason Foundation | 