By: Nicholas Sohr

A Baltimore County senator’s effort to get the General Assembly involved in the planned, statewide toll increases during the special redistricting session this week will likely have to wait.

Sen. Norman Stone, D-Baltimore County, said Monday the legislature should hold hearings on the issue that has riled lawmakers and drivers of all stripes.

“By the time we get to the regular session, it’ll be etched in stone, no pun intended,” he said.

The Maryland Transportation Authority approved the toll increases last month that will hit in two waves — the first Nov. 1 and the second, July 1, 2013.

Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr. said MdTA needs the toll revenue to maintain its bridges, tunnels and highways. He said the toll issue could be raised during the regular session, but that it would likely be overshadowed by debate over an increase to the state’s gasoline tax.

“The issue of tolls will look like  a flea compared to an elephant,” said Miller.