Virginia House Bill 297 – Regional Fuels Tax; Suspends the Imposition of any Tax


Bill Location:
VirginiaAssembly / House
Bill Title:

Regional Fuels Tax; Suspends the Imposition of any Tax

Full Bill Text ›
NMA Recommendation:
Oppose

UPDATE February 22, 2022: Bill died in committee.

House Bill 297 would suspend the imposition of any regional fuel taxes between July 1, 2022 and July 1, 2023. It is pending in the House Finance Committee.

The NMA opposes this measure since manipulating fuel tax rates arbitrarily or based on political whims does not serve motorists. The NMA advocates for a fair and adequate fuel tax rate (both at the state and federal levels) as the most efficient and equitable way to provide transportation funding. Heavier, less fuel-efficient vehicles contribute more to road wear and tear than do smaller passenger vehicles and motorcycles, but by virtue of higher fuel consumption their owners also pay more for highway upkeep and improvements. Suspending the tax, even temporarily, may seem like a good thing for motorists, but the shortfall would have to made up in some way.

In addition, this proposal may pave the way for alternative road funding schemes such as a Mileage-Based User Fee. Such programs are particularly problematic for motorists on many levels. Learn more here.


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