Those who do not have SunPass or use coin-controlled toll booths will be charged through a camera scan of their license plates.

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The Florida Department of Transportation said Thursday it has stopped taking cash payments at Florida’s Turnpike toll plazas in an effort to slow the spread of coronavirus

As of noon Thursday, toll payments were only being accepted electronically. Drivers with SunPass accounts will continue to have those accounts billed as normal, state transportation officials said.

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Those without a SunPass account will receive a Toll Enforcement Invoice in the mail. The state is temporarily waiving the $2.50 invoice administrative fee.

Drivers may still use the exact coin payment lanes where there is no toll operator present.

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The move limits contact between human beings at toll plazas during a time when "social distancing" is urged to curb the spread of the virus. People are urged to keep at least 6 feet of distance from each other.

It also limits how often toll-both attendants must handle money. Authorities say the coronavirus can live on surfaces such as metal and paper for several hours.

The transportation department did not say how long the current payment system will remain in place.

jwhigham@pbpost.com

@JuliusWhigham

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